Publication: Echinocereus Monogr. (preprint) [7] (1998).
Description
Echinocereus pulchellus ssp.venustus is a variety or subspecies of the well-known globular echinocereus. It has low greyish-green body with straight low ribs, short white-yellow spines pressed against the stem, and nice pink flowers from the lower part of the body.
Stem: Small, flattened-spherical to short-cylindrical, 30-50 mm in height and 30-75 mm in diameter. Epidermis is grey-green.
Roots: Thick tape roots.
Radial spines: Fewer (4-9), up to 8 mm long, greyish-brownish, widely spaced, pressed against the stem.
Flowers: At the age of two years, a tiny ball releases buds from last year’s areoles, which develop quite rapidly. In spring, beautiful flowers unfold, reaching up to 30 mm in length and 50-55 mm in diameter. Petals are pink with a distinct dark stripe in the centre. A pleasant floral fragrance is perceivable from a distance.
Fruit: Flat-oval, ripens 1-2 months, dark green, opens across.
Seeds: 1.2 mm long, 1.5 mm wide black.
Origin and Habitat
Mexico North-east (San Luis Potosí). San Luis Potosi City to Aguascalientes.
Altitude range: Around 2100 metres above sea level.
Cultivation and Propagation
It has a strong tap root and should have a deep pot to accommodate it. Needs porous well drained soil, water carefully, too much water will make it rot. Keep dry at minimum temperature of 5° C in winter although will tolerate brief periods to -10 degrees.
Sun Exposure: Full sun to light shade.
Propagation: It grow easily from seed or cutting (if available)