Special Web Offer - Get 50% OFF!
Grab Your Deal Now
PlantSnap
Plant Care
Peanut cactus
(Echinopsis chamaecereus)
Also Known As
Peanut cactus, Chamaecereus, Cactus del cacahuate
About This Plant
Echinopsis chamaecereus is a cactus species native to the Andes Mountains in South America. It is a small, clumping cactus that produces numerous offsets, forming a low mound of stems. The stems are cylindrical, bright green, and covered in dense white spines. In spring, it produces large, showy flowers in shades of pink, red, orange, and yellow.
Plant Care Instructions
Outdoor Size Range
12-24 inches (30-60 cm)
Light Requirements
Echinopsis chamaecereus prefers bright, direct sunlight for at least 6 hours a day. It can tolerate some shade, but too much shade can cause the plant to become leggy and weak.
Humidity Needs
Echinopsis chamaecereus prefers low humidity levels and is tolerant of dry air.
Fertilizing Schedule
Fertilize Echinopsis chamaecereus once a month during the growing season (spring and summer) with a balanced fertilizer diluted to half strength.
Pruning Guidelines
Echinopsis chamaecereus does not require pruning, but you can remove any dead or damaged stems to keep the plant looking tidy.
Common Pests and Diseases
Common pests for Echinopsis chamaecereus include mealybugs, spider mites, and scale insects. These can be treated with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Indoor Size Range
6-12 inches (15-30 cm)
Watering Schedule
Water Echinopsis chamaecereus thoroughly, but allow the soil to dry out completely between waterings. During the winter months, reduce watering to once a month.
Temperature Range
Echinopsis chamaecereus prefers warm temperatures between 70-80°F (21-27°C) during the day and cooler temperatures between 50-60°F (10-16°C) at night.
Growing Season
Echinopsis chamaecereus grows actively in the spring and summer and is dormant in the winter.
Growing Difficulty Level
Echinopsis chamaecereus is an easy plant to grow and is suitable for beginners.
USDA Hardiness Zones
Echinopsis chamaecereus is hardy in USDA zones 9-11.
Did You Know?
Echinopsis chamaecereus is sometimes called the 'Peanut Cactus' because the shape of its small, round stems resembles that of a peanut.
