Xerophyte

Habit

It is a matforming cactus with many crowded finger-like stems. Established plants can reach a height of 20 cm and width of 100 cm.

Central Spines

0 or 1 central spine.

Description

Echinocereus pentalophusSN|1587]]SN|1587]] var. procumbens distinguishes from the standard species for its stems that are semi-prostrate, and the thinnest of all the subspecies. Moreover it stems are deeper green in colour, with 4 to 5 ribs, and 5 to 7 spines per areole. It is a very fine sight in bloom, having few equals within the genus Echinocereus.

Flowers

Huge, up to 12 cm long lilac, brilliant pink or magenta with a distinct white throat can almost hide the plant, blossoms in mid April-may.

Ribs

4-5, with low tubercles.

Stem

Semi-prostrate, branched above ground, sprawling and decumbent, reddish-purple to dark green. Stems are weak, 2 cm in diameter.

Radial Spines

5 or 7, short, brown, yellowish, tan or ashy white, usually very stiff and straight.

Fruits

Green with white pulp. Fruiting 3-4 months after flowering.