Xerophyte

Habit

It is a small cactus, usually solitary, or heavily clustering.

Central Spines

1-4, whisker-like, twisted, asymmetrical, more or less long, interlaced up and in disorder curved up to 3 cm long. The length of spines greatly depends on sun exposure and plant's age.

Seeds

Globular, small grained.

Description

Echinopsis saltensisSN|16319]]SN|16319]] (best known asEchinopsis saltensisSN|16319]]SN|16319]] var multicostata The var. multicostata Rausch is similar to the standard species, however with 20 and more ribs, closer spaced areoles and therefore also closer, broom-like Spination. In all other characteristics, namely shape of stems, flowers, fruits, roots etc. it is very similar to the standard E. saltensis.

Roots

Tap root.

Flowers

Pretty, shining, small up to 5 cm long, unscented, somewhat bell-shaped-bulgy, dark orange-red or crimson that appears almost black when starting to open. The stamen's filaments are dark red, and bear cream-white contrasting anthers. The stigma lobes are greenish.

Blooming Season

The greater part of flowers appears in spring in the first flowering, but the plant can erratically produce some flowers in summer too.

Ribs

20 or more.

Stem

Flattish, egg-shaped or slightly elongated, up to 12 cm tall, 9 cm in diameter, bright green to dark green or almost black.

Radial Spines

12-14, thin, reddish.

Fruits

Globular, 5 mm in diameter, with little brown wool, up-drying.

Areoles

5-7 mm apart.