Eulychnia castanea f. cristata

Origin: Eulychnia castanea, also known as the chestnut cactus, is native to Chile, where it grows naturally in arid and semi-desert areas.

Watering : It is a very resistant plant to the dryness. In summer, a moderate watering every 10 to 15 days is sufficient. In winter, it is best to reduce watering to once a month or less, depending on the temperature and humidity of your area. Always make sure the soil is completely dry before watering again to avoid root rot.

Luminosity : Eulychnia castanea likes a lot of light. It prefers direct sunlight but also tolerates indirect light. However, make sure that it is not exposed to a too hot midday sun which could cause burns on the foliage.

Substrate: Prefer a well-draining substrate, such as a mixture of garden soil, coarse sand and small gravel, to mimic the conditions of its natural habitat. The ideal soil pH is between 6 and 7.

Flower color: The flowers of Eulychnia castanea are strikingly beautiful. They are white to cream in color, with a yellow center, and can reach 5 to 7 cm in diameter.

Minimum temperature : This plant resists well to the cold and can support minimum temperatures until -2°C. However, for an optimal growth, it is preferable to maintain an ambient temperature of at least 10°C.

Growth Rate: Eulychnia castanea is relatively slow growing. Under ideal conditions, you can expect it to grow about 10 to 15 cm per year. Over time, it can grow to a height of 2 to 3 meters in cultivation, while it can reach up to 7 meters in its natural habitat.