Desert's Blooming Jewel, Red Torch
Echinopsishuascha

Family: Cactaceae (kak-TAY-see-ee)
Genus: Echinopsis (ek-in-OP-sis)
Species: huascha (WAS-kuh)

Synonym:Lobivia grandiflora

Synonym:Helianthocereus grandiflorus

Synonym:Trichocereus rowleyi

Synonym:Trichocereus huascha

Synonym:Cereus huascha

Category
Alpines and Rock Gardens
Cactus and Succulents

Water Requirements
Drought-tolerant; suitable for xeriscaping

Sun Exposure
Full Sun

Foliage

Foliage Color

Height
24-36 in. (60-90 cm)

Spacing
24-36 in. (60-90 cm)
36-48 in. (90-120 cm)

Hardiness
USDA Zone 9b: to -3.8 °C (25 °F)
USDA Zone 10a: to -1.1 °C (30 °F)
USDA Zone 10b: to 1.7 °C (35 °F)
USDA Zone 11: above 4.5 °C (40 °F)

Where to Grow

Danger
Plant has spines or sharp edges; use extreme caution when handling

Bloom Color
Red

Bloom Characteristics

Bloom Size

Bloom Time
Mid Spring
Late Spring/Early Summer
Mid Summer

Other details

Soil pH requirements
6.1 to 6.5 (mildly acidic)
6.6 to 7.5 (neutral)
7.6 to 7.8 (mildly alkaline)

Patent Information
Non-patented

Propagation Methods
From woody stem cuttings
From softwood cuttings
Allow cut surface to callous over before planting

Seed Collecting
Allow unblemished fruit to ripen; clean and dry seeds
Properly cleaned, seed can be successfully stored