Full Description: Cactus species Espostoa mirabilis is a columnar somewhat shrubby to tree-like Cactus, green stems, up to 3-1/2" to 4" inches in diameter, 13 to 16 ribs on average, 1 or 2 white long central spines with brownish tips; 30 or more white and brownish radials spines. New growth typically emerges from the base but occasionally from the side of stems. A tropical type cacti Espostoa mirabilis likes regular water in summer but little water in winter. Makes an excellent landscape plant or container grown specimen in frost free locations.
Synonyms : No known synonyms.
Common Names : No known common names.
Native To : Espostoa are endemic to Southern Ecuador and Peru, but this particular species is predominantly located in Peru where it is found in the Amazonas, La Libertad and Cajamarca regions.
Flowers : Are white to off white colored and emerge in spring thru summer. Blooms average 2-1/4" in diameter and emerge laterally on the stem growth from a light to dark brown colored cephalium-(Heavy wholly or beard like).
More Info. : Espostoa is a genus of columnar cacti, comprising 16 species known from the Andes of southern Ecuador and Peru. It usually lives at an altitude of between 800m and 2500m. Its fruit is edible, sweet, and juicy. The genus is named after Nicolas E. Esposto, a renowned botanist from Lima.
Espostoa are candle-like cacti covered with thorns and white hair. Only the older specimens can divide.
In adulthood, a cephalium sometimes appears, similar to the Mexican genus Cephalocereus.
They were discovered by Alexander von Humboldt and Aimé Bonpland in the early nineteenth century.
Smaller plants of Espostoa mirabilis usually do not display long central spines only larger 2' to 3' ft. or taller plants will, from the top half of the stem growth.
Care : Somewhat prone to root rot in winter if left in dense compacted soil mix. Be sure it has excellent drainage especially in winter. Likes full sun. Water regularly in summer and keep on the dry side in winter. Cannot tolerate prolonged periods below 40 degrees, provide protection by greenhousing or grow as a house plant in cold climates.
Offered As : A 10" to 12" cutting to all mail order locations. Larger rooted specimens are available for mail order with in the U.S. only or can be picked up-click the link to visit our walk in nursery website linked below to order or visit us..
Established 3 to 5 gallon rooted plant(s) up to larger specimen multi-plant(s) may also be available for shipping within the U.S. only or for pick-up as most are very large, so sorry but no international shipping of large plants. Simply click the link below for info. about our walk-in nursery website, or to check availability and place an order with one of our friendly sales reps. today !
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