Echinopsis or Lobivia hertrichiana is a small, particularly beautiful cactus. is solitary or clump-forming, with spherical bodies about 6 cm long and up to 10 cm thick with about 11-20 notched ribs. The yellowish spines are so interlocking that they almost cover the stem. This cactus is popular because of its large, brilliant red flowers occurring in clusters at the top of the stems.
Cultivation and Propagation: Echinopsis hertrichiana is a summer grower species that offers no cultivation difficulties. Water requirements: Water regularly in spring and summer on sunny days (but do not overwater), keep dry in winter Soils: This pretty lobivia is rather more moisture- and temperature- sensitive than many, so make sure that the potting mixture is very well drained by adding one part of sharp sand or perlite to three parts of a standard material. Fertilization. Feed with a high potassium fertilizer at the beginning of the growing season, but continuing to use this fertilizer through the season will not suit the majority of succulent plants, as it will promote 'soft' growth that is susceptible to disease Exposures. Need a bright exposure, full sun or half shade in summer. Hardiness: It is quite frost resistant if kept dry (hardy to -12° C). Pests and diseases: Take care Spines can hide mealy bugs.
Some of the information in this description has been found at desert-tropicals.com, llifle.com and cactus-art.biz
