Publication: Gesamtbeschr. Kakt. 272. 1898
Description
It commonly remains single, but old plants sometime branch and form several heads.
Stems: Cylindrical stems 10-20 cm tall 3-6 cm in diameter almost hidden by the short interlocking spines.
Ribs: (12-)20-23 obtuse, usually straight.
Areoles: Approximate, but not touching one another, about 3 mm long, oval, young areoles with short white hair.
Central spines: Not present or 1 to 6 and very short, more or less porrect.
Radial spines: 16 to 30 white or pinkish 5-10 mm long, spreading widely, pectinate, and intertwining with those of the other areoles often in coloured bands.
Flowers: Funnel-shaped, diurnal, intense pink (but also magenta, lavender…Or…Yellow to near-whitish) with a white-greenish base, 6-8 cm long , petals quite long and pointed, areoles very spiny with white hairs on the floral tube. Stamen usually cream coloured.
Fruits: Spiny, greenish-purple, becoming naked, 2-3 cm in diameter. Gooseberry-like rich in sugar and said to be very delicious.
Origin and Habitat
Southwestern US, northern Mexico
Cultivation and Propagation
In culture E. pectinatus is without problems and regularly shows its beautiful flowers if we provide an adequate winter rest period. It is sensitive to overwatering (rot prone) needs good drainage, Keep drier and cool in winter. Need full sun; Very cold resistant hardy to -10° C or less for short periods of time.
Propagation:* Seeds or cutting (if available)