Echinopsis huascha

Echinopsis huascha

Synonym: Trichocereus huascha
Family: Cactaceae
Common Name: torch cactus
Origin: Echinopsis huascha originates from the Monte shrubland and Gran Chaco forest within northern Argentina, Catamarca and La Rioja. It is found at altitudes of 900 – 2,000 meters.
Description: E. huascha is a green, cylindrical cactus that possesses 12 to 18 ribs, forming clumps up to 3 feet tall. Branches develop basally, with stems possessing an upright and creeping form, and 1-3 central spines. Along the form, numerous yellow areoles are present, each developing 9-11 yellowish-brown radial spines. From spring to summer, tubular flowers will bloom from the areoles – scentless and yellow, red, or orange in color. Flowers will be followed by yellow fruits.

Interesting Features:
- The flowers of the torch cactus are diurnal, and will only bloom for 1-3 days before dying.
- There has been confusion about the Echinopsis genus, with both Lobivia and Trichocereus recently being combined – including several synonyms and similar traits.
- For example, Echinopsis huascha possesses the shorter tube of Lobivia flowers, and is similar in appearance to Trichocereus, although the latter blooms are strictly nocturnal.
Uses: E. huascha is popular in cultivation, with many hybrids and varieties being developed, and the robust form often utilized as rootstock. Additionally, as the torch cactus is the smallest species of columnar cacti, it is easily sited in small xeriscape or desert gardens.
- Although it is unknown if E. huascha possesses special properties, some other species within the Echinopsis genus contain psychoactive compounds, with the potential to be used medicinally or for religious purposes.

Cultivation and Care:

Watering: Moderate
- Water thoroughly whenever soil is dry, allowing cacti to partially wilt in between waterings. While drought tolerant, the torch cactus requires more water than other cacti, and should be properly doused when dry.
- However, do not water in winter.
Soil: Plant Echinopsis huascha in well-draining, fertile soil that has been mixed with sand and crushed stone, and maintain a pH between 6.1 and 7.8.
Lighting: The torch cactus requires strong light for the best growth. Provide full sun outdoors, and as much direct light as possible indoors.
- During the winter, cacti should be moved to a cooler location, where the same level of light is maintained to prevent etiolated growth.
Propagation: E. huascha can be propagated from softwood or hardwood cuttings, through seed, and offsets, which develop numerously from mature plants.
- With high humidity, proper light, and adequate nutrition, seeds germinate easily. However, flower color may not come true from seed, and some plants may be sterile.
Cold Tolerance: 25°F, USDA hardiness zones 9b to 11.
Special Accommodations: The torch cactus is easy to maintain and will grow quickly if given the right conditions.
- As long as a dry winter rest period is maintained, the species’ susceptibility to fungal diseases – such as black rot – can be avoided entirely.
- Feed monthly during spring and summer with a balanced fertilizer, and always wear gloves when handling, to avoid damage by the spines.

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