Sun: full sun to partial shade
Water: Typical water needs for a succulent
Temperature: Zone 9a from 20° F to 25° F (-6.7 ° C to -3.9° C)
Winter Survival: Not cold hardy
Propagation: seeds
Flower: in the summer
Flower Type:
Toxic: Can be toxic to humans and animals
Dormant: winter
Space Requirement: Indoors & Outdoors
Common Problems: pests
Where to buy Echinocactus grusonii?
Basc Care for Echinocactus grusonii
Watering
What you need to remember is that this type of succulents needs to be watered for every 2 weeks
Can you water your succulent more than what its need? The answer is yes and no. In extreme conditions, you can water your plants more often when you notice the soil is completely dry.
Fertilizing
Only feed this succulent during its active growing seasons which means spring and fall. Use the right fertilizer applied in the right amounts. Applying half-strength balanced fertilizer every month or so is recommended for optimal results.
Do not fertilize during winter as the plant is dormant.
Sun & Location Requirements for "Echinocactus grusonii"
Echinocactus grusonii does best when placed in an area that receives full sun to partial shade throughout the day. This variety of succulents can tolerate direct sunlight for short periods, but if the temperatures get too high or the light is too intense it may be beneficial to find a shadier spot.
As per this succulent profile, it is only able to stay healthy when the environment temperature is above the range of zone 9a from 20° F to 25° F (-6.7 ° C to -3.9° C).
In order to ensure that Echinocactus grusonii survives the winter, insulation and drainage are essential. A layer of mulch or gravel around the plant can help keep the roots warm during cold temperatures. Furthermore, avoiding exposure to wind and sun can reduce the risk of frost damage and promote longevity for your succulent.
Any succulents in the group will need a medium space to grow. You can place your pot at your table or window. Since this plant needs more space than mini succulents, you should consider do not plant them together with other succulents/plants.
Echinocactus grusonii also benefits from some indirect light throughout the day as well, so make sure you give it enough space to soak up light without becoming too exposed to heat.
Propagation
Echinocactus grusonii can be propagated from seeds. Signs of a good seed is one that is plump, dark in color and slightly sticky. To propagate X from seed, one must prepare a soil mixture of well-draining potting mix, sow the seeds evenly and lightly press them into the surface. Lastly, gently water the soil using a spray bottle and place the container in bright but indirect light.
Toxicity
Echinocactus grusonii has high levels of calcium oxalate, a substance that is toxic to both humans and animals. Ingesting parts of this succulent can cause skin irritation, difficulty breathing, blurred vision and vomiting in severe cases. Keep children and pets away from "Echinocactus grusonii" and regularly inspect for signs of damage or consumption.
Pests and Diseases
Echinocactus grusonii can be affected common pests and diseases like most of the other succulents such as aphids, mealybugs, and scale insects.
If you do spot any of pest signs, you can treat your succulent using below methods.
- Aphids: quarantine, clean infected plants, soapy water.
- Mealybugs: quarantine, clean infected plants, soapy water.
- Scale insects: quarantine, clean infected plants, soapy water.
Besides that, to prevent serious health issues from happening, keep your succulent in a well-ventilated area and check it regularly for any signs of pests or health problems.