AI-generated image
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)
Lifespan of the Sea-Urchin Cactus
The Sea-Urchin Cactus lives Perennial (decades).
Size of the Sea-Urchin Cactus
The Sea-Urchin Cactus grows to 10-15cm diameter.
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
Watering
Likes water but keep drier and dormant in winter
Hardiness
Hardy and cold-tolerant; can overwinter outdoors in mild areas
Soil & Repotting
Use a well-draining cactus mix. It produces many offsets and clumps up, so when the pot gets crowded, repot and divide at the same time.
Propagation
Remove an offset, let the base dry, then set it on soil and it will root. Plenty of spring sun and a well-developed plant lead to flowering.
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 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 GrowerDirect's price guide for the latest market information.
Last updated: June 26, 2026
References & Sources
Edited & verified by: GrowerDirect 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
The family Cactaceae is listed in its entirety in CITES Appendix II. This genus (Echinopsis) contains no Appendix I species. Specimens in commerce are of captive origin.
Sources: CITES Checklist — Cactaceae spp. (Appendix II, whole family)
Regulations may change. Always verify the latest information with the relevant authorities.
Related Species
Find listings for this species
Related Articles
Complete Guide to Cactus Care | Differences from Succulents and Management Tips
From the differences between cacti and succulents, to basic care including watering, sunlight, and repotting, and introducing popular species. This guide comprehensively covers the fundamentals of cactus cultivation.
Grafting Techniques for Cacti and Succulents: Complete Guide to Cultivating Rare Species and Accelerating Growth Through Grafting
Comprehensive explanation from the basic principles of grafting cacti and succulents to actual work procedures, rootstock selection, and management methods.
Autumn Preparation Management for Summer-Type Succulents
A guide to autumn care for summer-type succulents, covering plant changes from September to November, timing for gradual watering reduction, placement and temperature management for transitioning plants indoors, autumn fertilizing and pest control, variety-specific care checkpoints, and preparation for winter dormancy.
Mealybug Control on Succulents | Complete Guide to Early Detection, Removal, and Prevention
Mealybugs hide easily at the base of succulent leaves and on new growth. This guide covers their characteristics, the environments where they thrive, tips for early detection, removal methods using cotton swabs and alcohol, and daily care practices to prevent recurrence.
🩺 Common diseases
Can't find the plant you're looking for?
Post your wishes for free and growers with matching plants will contact you with introductions.