Eriosyce taltalensis subs. paucicostata

Eriosyce taltalensis subs. paucicostata is a subspecies of cactus from the genus Eriosyce, native to Chile, known for its sturdy appearance and ability to survive in dry conditions. It is a small to medium-sized cactus, notable for its attractive flowers and interesting features.

Description:

• Shape: Eriosyce taltalensis subs. paucicostata is a globular or slightly cylindrical cactus. It has a compact body, rarely exceeding 10 cm in diameter, but can reach up to 15 cm in height.
• Color: The cactus body is gray-green or dark green, sometimes almost reddish-brown, depending on sun exposure and growing conditions.
• Ribs: The name "paucicostata" refers to the small number of ribs (paucicostata = "with few ribs"). These ribs are quite prominent but widely spaced apart.
• Spines: The spines are sturdy, with variable color (from whitish to black), relatively long, sharp, and stiff, giving the cactus a rough and defensive look. The spines are arranged around the areoles, which are placed on the ribs.
• Flowers: It produces beautiful flowers in pink, yellow, or cream colors, which appear at the top of the plant. The flowers are medium-sized, about 3-4 cm in diameter, and usually bloom in summer.
• Fruits: After flowering, Eriosyce taltalensis subs. paucicostata can produce small spherical fruits, red or pinkish, which contain the seeds.

Care:

1. Light: This subspecies prefers strong light but not direct midday sun, which can cause burns. It is advisable to keep it in a place where it can receive intense indirect light or filtered sun. It can be grown outdoors in summer if protected from too intense sunlight.

2. Temperature: It adapts well to high temperatures but prefers cooler temperatures around 5-10°C during winter to enter dormancy. It does not tolerate extremely low temperatures (below 0°C), especially if exposed to moisture.

3. Watering: Watering should be moderate. During the growing season (spring and summer), the soil should be allowed to dry completely between waterings. In winter, the plant should be kept almost completely dry to prevent rotting. Overwatering is one of the most common causes of death for this cactus.

4. Soil: Prefers very well-drained soil, poor in organic matter. A mix of cactus soil with added coarse sand or fine gravel is ideal to allow quick water drainage and prevent soil compaction.

5. Fertilizing: During the growing period, it can be fertilized once a month with a fertilizer low in nitrogen, specially made for cacti. Avoid fertilizing during winter when the plant is dormant.

6. Repotting: This cactus does not require frequent repotting. Repotting can be done every 2-3 years or only if the roots have grown too much and the pot becomes too small. Use a pot with good drainage, and repotting should be done in spring.

7. Flowering: To encourage flowering, it is important to provide a resting period during winter with lower temperatures and no watering. This rest period will help the plant produce flowers in the following season.

8. Air: This cactus species prefers a well-ventilated space, as good air circulation helps prevent fungal diseases or mold.

Height with pot included approx. 10 cm

The plant is shown for 1 pot - the plant is sold without flowers.