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Lobivia aurea
Echinopsis aurea
| The name is an anagram of Bolivia, home to most of the 160 species. They grow wild in rock crevices and on mountain slopes as high as nearly 10,000 feet. Most are clusters of tiny globes or cylinders with fine, dense spines, bearing many satiny blossoms as big as the plants. Other species tower to 32 feet, with widely spaced, 3-inch-long spines. Tree-sized species take 10 to 20 years to bloom, but the miniatures flower as early as 2 years in yellow, orange, red, pink, purple and lilac. Look for contrasting combinations such as coppery petals around a green center, or black-centered pink. The Paramount hybrids may produce more than a dozen 6-inch-long blossoms on a 3- to 4-inch plant. Easy to grow in full sun or light shade with plenty of fresh air. Plant in fertile sandy soil, adding pumice and perlite for fast drainage. Water a bit more than other Cacti, especially in summer bloom. Fertilize regularly while flowering. Miniatures make ideal potted plants -- move them to a cool, dry, sheltered spot in harsh weather. Keep absolutely dry in winter, and most will take near-freezing temperatures. A few handle brief frost. Grow very easily from seed or by dividing clusters. All are susceptible to red spider mites. |
Round or cylindrical stems grow alone or in clusters, with 1-inch-long central spines. Several varieties, all with yellow-white flowers, have different shapes, sizes, and spine colors.
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Attributes - Lobivia aurea
Plant Type: Succulent
Bloom Season: Mid Spring through Mid Summer
Flower Color: White, Yellow
Foliage: Evergreen
Height: 4 in. to 1 ft. 4 in.
Width: 5 in.
Sunlight: Full Sun
Climate: Zones 9, 10, 11
Notes: Thrives in Dry Climates, Hot Climates. Container Plants, Drought Tolerant, Low Maintenance, Showy Flowers.
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