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Sea-Urchin Cactus
BeginnerEchinopsis eyriesii
A classic household globe cactus long grown in Japan. In early summer it opens huge fragrant white flowers at night. Hardy, cold-tolerant, and clustering.
About
The sea-urchin cactus (Echinopsis eyriesii) is a globular-to-short-columnar cactus of Argentina, Uruguay, and southern Brazil, and one of the most familiar cacti grown in Japanese homes for generations. From a dark-green body with deep ribs and short spines, it opens huge, fragrant, white trumpet-shaped flowers on early-summer nights. The blooms open at night and wilt by the next morning (a one-day flower), though they may last several days in cloudy weather. It produces many offsets and forms impressive clusters. Because its native climate resembles Japan's, it is very hardy and cold-tolerant, even overwintering outdoors in some regions. Cultivation is easy: it likes a sunny, airy spot and enjoys water, so water thoroughly when the soil dries during the growing season. Keep it drier and dormant in winter; ample spring sun and a well-established plant are the keys to flowering. Hardy and rewarding with large blooms, it is an ideal beginner cactus.
Source: Wikipedia (CC BY-SA 4.0)
Basic Info
Origin
South America (Argentina, Uruguay, southern Brazil)
Lifespan
Perennial (decades)
Size
10-15cm diameter
Temperature
0〜35℃
Humidity
30〜50%
Watering & Fertilizer
Minimal
Growing Tips
Lighting
Likes a sunny, well-ventilated spot
Flowers
Fragrant large white flowers on summer nights; last a day
Hardiness
Hardy and cold-tolerant; can overwinter outdoors in mild areas
Clustering
Produces many offsets and forms clusters
Watering
Likes water but keep drier and dormant in winter
Sea-Urchin Cactus FAQ
QWhat is the growing difficulty level for Sea-Urchin Cactus?
Beginner. A variety suitable for beginners. No special equipment or experience is required—you can grow it without problems by setting up a basic cultivation environment.
QWhat is the ideal temperature for Sea-Urchin Cactus?
The ideal temperature for Sea-Urchin Cactus is 0〜35℃. Recommended humidity is 30〜50%. Avoid sudden temperature changes and maintain a stable environment.
QWhat is the lifespan of Sea-Urchin Cactus?
The average lifespan of Sea-Urchin Cactus is Perennial (decades). With proper cultivation environment and nutrient management, you can keep it healthy for a long time.
QHow large does Sea-Urchin Cactus get?
The mature size of Sea-Urchin Cactus is 10-15cm diameter. This may vary slightly depending on cultivation environment and individual differences.
QHow should I water and fertilize Sea-Urchin Cactus?
Sea-Urchin Cactus: watering & fertilizer — Minimal. Aim for appropriate frequency and amount.
QWhat is the typical price for Sea-Urchin Cactus?
The price of Sea-Urchin Cactus varies significantly by variety, characteristics, size, and lineage. Please check ボタちょく's price guide for the latest market information.
Last updated: June 26, 2026
References & Sources
Edited & verified by: BoTachoku Editorial Team
The classifications, regulations, and growing data on this page are created and verified based on the primary information database below.
Taxonomy & Authority
Accepted name: Echinopsis eyriesii (Turpin) Pfeiff. & Otto
Synonyms: Echinopsis turbinata Zucc.
Authority databases: Wikipedia
Nomenclature follows global taxonomic authority databases.
Regulations & Conservation Status
サボテン科 Cactaceae は科全体が CITES 附属書II。本属(Echinopsis)に附属書I種はない。流通個体は繁殖由来。
Sources: CITES Checklist — Cactaceae spp. (Appendix II, whole family)
Regulations may change. Always verify the latest information with the relevant authorities.
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