Xerophyte

Description

Echinocereus russanthusSN|21782]]SN|21782]] is usually a nice cactus species with bristle-like spimes, typically reddish to brown (but also white or yellowish) obscuring the stems.

Flowering Period

March - June.

Flowers

2-3,5 × 1,5-3 cm; rust-red, often with darker purplish maroon midstripes, anthers greenish-yellow.

Crested Growth

This is one of the nicest crested cacti that on rare occasions develops. Crested plants often results in several flowers appearing at one time along the line meristem. It is best maintained by grafting it on to a columnar stock (e.g. Trichocereus, Harrisia, Myrtillocactus).

Spines

Interlocking, bristle-like slender, typically reddish to brown (but also white or yellowish) obscuring the stems, radiating in all directions.

Stem

Fan shaped, 8-30 tall and 4 or more cm in thik; ribs prominent with crests, slightly to conspicuously undulate; areoles 3-12 mm apart.

Fruits

yellowish green to dark green, dark purple, or reddish tinged, 6-17 mm, pulp white; fruiting 2 months after flowering.