Origin
Echinopsis candicans (Gillies ex Salm-Dyck) F. A. C. Weber ex D. R. Hunt, commonly known as Argentine giant or white torch cactus, is a species of flowering plant in the family Cactaceae. It is native to Argentina, Bolivia, Paraguay, and Uruguay.
Common Names
Echinopsis candicans is commonly known as Argentine giant, white torch cactus, desert candle, and candicans cactus. It is also known by its scientific synonym, Trichocereus candicans.
Uses
Because of its striking appearance, Echinopsis candicans is commonly used in landscaping in drier regions, including xeriscaping. Its large, white flowers bloom at night and are a popular attraction for nocturnal pollinators such as moths. In South American traditional medicine, the cactus is used to treat headaches, inflammation, and fever.
General Appearance
Echinopsis candicans is a columnar cactus that can grow up to 6 meters tall and up to 22 centimeters in diameter. It has 20 to 30 low ribs with brown areoles that produce spines that can grow up to 10 centimeters long. The cactus produces large, showy, white flowers that bloom at night and are up to 22 centimeters long. Its fruit is edible and can be eaten fresh or dried.
Light Requirement
Echinopsis candicans is a sun-loving plant and requires plenty of direct sunlight to thrive. Ideally, it should be placed in an area where it can receive at least six hours of direct sunlight every day. However, it is important to note that the plant should be gradually acclimatized to direct sunlight, as sudden exposure to bright sunlight can cause sunburn.
Temperature Requirement
The plant requires warm temperatures between 18°C to 27°C (65°F to 80°F) during the growing season. In winter, the plant can tolerate temperatures as low as 4°C (40°F), but it is important to provide protection from freezing weather. Extreme fluctuations in temperature can be detrimental to the plant's health.
Soil Requirement
Echinopsis candicans prefers well-draining soil that is slightly acidic with a pH range of 6 to 7. It needs a soil that is rich in organic matter and has good water retention capacity. A good mix of soil can be prepared by blending equal parts of potting soil, coarse sand, and perlite. The plant does not like waterlogged soil, so it is important to ensure that adequate drainage is provided.
Cultivation Methods for Echinopsis Candicans
Echinopsis candicans is a cactus plant that thrives well in well-drained sandy soil. When planting this species, ensure the soil is not too compact, and the pot has drainage holes. It would be best if you also placed the plant in a location that receives enough sunlight. The plant can be grown both indoors and outdoors.
Watering Needs for Echinopsis Candicans
It is recommended to water Echinopsis candicans once a week during summer and spring. During winter, reduce watering to once every two or three weeks. The plant is drought-tolerant, and it is advisable not to overwater to avoid root rot disease. Always ensure that the soil is dry before watering, and do it early in the morning or at dusk.
Fertilization Needs for Echinopsis Candicans
The best time to fertilize Echinopsis Candicans is during the growing season, which is spring and summer. You can use a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half-strength. Apply the fertilizer every two weeks to promote healthy growth. During winter, the plant is dormant, and no fertilizer application is necessary.
Pruning of Echinopsis Candicans
Echinopsis Candicans does not require frequent pruning. However, you can trim off any dead or damaged parts, especially during the growing season. You can use a clean, sharp knife or pruning shears to cut off the damaged parts. After pruning, avoid watering the plant for a few days to avoid infections.
Propagation of Echinopsis Candicans
Echinopsis candicans, also known as the Argentine giant cactus, is a fast-growing columnar cactus that can reach a height of up to 10 feet. It is easy to propagate and can be propagated by several methods.
Propagation by Seeds
Propagation by seeds is the most common method of propagation for Echinopsis candicans. The seeds should be collected from mature fruits and sown in a well-draining soil mix. The seeds should be kept moist but not soaking and should be placed in a warm and bright spot. Germination can take anywhere from two weeks to a few months, depending on the temperature and humidity. Once the seedlings have developed their first set of true leaves, they can be transplanted into individual pots.
Propagation by Cuttings
Propagation by cuttings is another method that can be used to propagate Echinopsis candicans. Cuttings should be taken in the spring from healthy stems. The cuttings should be allowed to dry in a well-ventilated area for a few days before being planted in a well-draining soil mix. The cuttings should be kept moist but not soaking and should be placed in a warm and bright spot. Roots should develop within a few weeks, and once established, the cuttings can be transplanted into individual pots.
Propagation by Division
Echinopsis candicans can also be propagated by division. Older plants can be divided into smaller sections, each with its own roots and stems. The sections should be allowed to dry for a few days before being planted in a well-draining soil mix. The plants should be kept moist but not soaking and should be placed in a warm and bright spot. New growth should develop within a few weeks, and once established, the plants can be transplanted into individual pots.
Caring for Seedlings, Cuttings, and Divisions
Seedlings, cuttings, and divisions of Echinopsis candicans should be kept in a warm and bright spot but should be protected from direct sunlight. They should be kept moist but not soaking and should be watered sparingly during the winter months. Once established, the plants can be watered more frequently and should be fertilized every two to four weeks during the growing season.
Disease Management
The Echinopsis candicans, also known as the Argentine giant cactus, can be susceptible to various diseases. Here are some common diseases and ways to manage them:
1. Root Rot
Root rot is a fungal disease that can occur due to overwatering or poor drainage. It can cause the roots to rot, making it difficult for the plant to absorb nutrients and water. To manage root rot, it is essential to ensure the plant is not overwatered and has proper drainage. Remove any affected roots and replant with fresh, healthy soil.
2. Cactus scab
Cactus scab is a fungal disease that can cause raised lesions or spots on the plant's surface. To manage cactus scab, prune any affected areas and treat with a fungicide. Ensure that the plant is in a well-ventilated area, watered adequately, and receives sufficient sunlight.
3. Anthracnose
Anthracnose is a fungal disease that causes brown or black discoloration on the stems and leaves of the plant. To manage anthracnose, prune the infected areas and treat with a fungicide. Ensure that the plant is adequately ventilated, watered correctly, and receives enough sunlight.
Pest Management
Echinopsis candicans can also be vulnerable to pests. Here are some common pests that might affect the plant and how to manage them:
1. Spider Mites
Spider mites can cause damage to the plant by piercing through the leaves and sucking the sap out of them. They can also spin webs, which can make the plant look unsightly. To manage spider mites, apply a miticide to the plant's leaves. Ensure that the plant is watered correctly, and there is no overcrowding around the plant.
2. Mealybugs
Mealybugs can be harmful to the Echinopsis candicans. They can cause yellowing or wilting of the plant due to their feeding on the plant's sap. To manage mealybugs, remove any visible mealybugs, and apply a systemic insecticide. Ensure that the plant is watered correctly and receives sufficient ventilation.
3. Scale Insects
Scale insects can also be potentially damaging to the Echinopsis candicans by piercing through the plant's tissue and feeding on its sap. They can cause leaves to yellow and drop off. To manage scale insects, remove any visible scales, and apply a horticultural oil-based insecticide. Ensure that the plant is watered correctly, and there is no overcrowding around the plant.
