Echinopsis schieliana (Syn. Lobivia) 'Red' – The Brilliant Scarlet Blooming Cactus

Echinopsis schieliana 'Red' – The Brilliant Scarlet Blooming Cactus

Echinopsis schieliana 'Red' is a captivating, compact cactus known for its radiant red flowers that bloom in spring and summer. Native to Bolivia, this species thrives in dry, high-altitude regions, adapting well to cultivation in pots and rock gardens. Its striking floral display makes it a favourite among cactus enthusiasts.

Distinctive Features

• Compact Growth: Forms small, globular to cylindrical stems with dense, short spines.
• Brilliant Red Flowers: Large, trumpet-shaped, and intensely red blooms that open during the day.
• Clustering Habit: Develops offsets over time, creating dense clumps.

Care Tips

• Light: Prefers full sun to bright, indirect light.
• Water: Allow soil to dry out completely between waterings; reduce watering in winter.
• Humidity: Tolerates low humidity, ideal for arid conditions.
• Temperature: Thrives in warm temperatures but can tolerate brief dips to 5°C.
• Fertiliser: Use a diluted cactus fertiliser during the growing season.
• Potting: Requires well-draining soil, such as a mix of sand, perlite, and cactus compost.
• Propagation: Easily propagated from offsets or seeds.

Additional Notes

• Encouraging blooms requires a cool, dry winter rest period.
• Not toxic to pets, making it a safe choice for households.
• Blooms attract pollinators, adding ecological value to gardens.

Echinopsis schieliana 'Red' is a must-have for cactus collectors, offering a dazzling floral display and easy care. Its ability to form clusters over time makes it a beautiful addition to rock gardens and container collections.