Chamaelobivia Hybrid 'Rose Quartz'

Botanical Name — Chamaelobivia Hybrid 'Rose Quartz'
Common Name — Peanut Cactus, Rose Quartz Cactus
Other Name – Echinopsis hybrid, Echinopsis chamaecereus
Plant Family — Cactaceae

Background


Chamaelobivia Hybrid 'Rose Quartz' comes from a group of hybrids commonly raised by nursery cultivators for centuries. The name Chamaelobivia is a combination of their parental species found in nature, Chamaecereus and Lobivia. Both of these species, however, have since been reclassified as Echinopsis. Nevertheless, the name Chamaelobivia has stuck. Known for flowering easily, prolifically, and beautifully, these hybrids, especially ‘Rose Quartz’ are highly sought by cactus lovers. They are among the easiest cacti to grow, so are also an excellent fit for beginners.

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Growth Requirements

Sun

• This hybrid requires plenty of full sun. At least five hours a day of the sun’s rays hitting it directly. 

• Growing them indoors, a spot in a south or west facing window is ideal. Growing these outdoors, place them in an area where they will receive dappled sunlight to protect them from peak afternoon sun.


Temperature/ Humidity 

• These cacti thrive in warm temperatures above 70 ºF and low humidity. 

• While they can handle some cold, a combination of cold and wet soil could more easily lead to root rot. It is advisable to bring them indoors once night time temperatures consistently fall below 50 ºF, so you can control the amount of water they receive.


Water

• Chamaelobivia Hybrids are drought tolerant. Always allow the soil to dry out completely in between waterings. When watering, water thoroughly, fully saturating the soil. 

• If you are unsure whether or not the soil is dry, wait a few days before watering. It is much better to underwater than overwater. Excessive moisture can quickly lead to root rot.


Soil/Roots

• These plants prefer a gritty, sharply draining mix. Use cactus soil or amend regular potting mix with sand and fine pumice up to 50% to improve texture and drainage. 

• In desert climates, these plants can be potted directly in the earth and grown outdoors year round. 

• Flowering
• Large funnelform flowers, bright orangish-red, bloom all over the cactus in late spring to early summer, or whenever the conditions are right indoors. 

• Each flower lasts for a short amount of time, but many can open in succession. 


Fertilization

• Chamaelobivia Hybrids do not require fertilization, however a boost of nutrients during the growing season will help them thrive. Use a fertilizer formulated specifically for cacti and succulents, once a month, during the spring and summer only. 


Propagation

• These plants can be reliably propagated from stem cuttings. Use a clean, sharp blade to sever a segment of a stem or an entire branch. Place the cutting in a shaded area for a few days to allow the wound to callous over, then pot in a well-drained cactus mix. 

• Chamaelobivia Hybrid can also be grown from seed. Sow seeds just below the surface, using a well-drained soil mix. Provide a humid microclimate to encourage germination and keep soil evenly moist during the first few months to encourage seedling growth. 


Health

Diseases

• These cacti are not especially prone to pests and diseases. Root rot can easily occur if the plant is overwatered. Keep an eye out for common pests such as mealybugs, aphids and scale. 


Maintenance (pruning, legginess, repotting)

• These hardy plants require very little maintenance. Container grown cacti prefer to be rootbound, so repotting should be necessary only once every two years. Repot into a planter 2” larger in diameter to give the plant plenty of room to continue growing. 


Toxicity

• Chamaelobivia Hybrids are considered toxic and should not be ingested by humans or animals. Spines are sharp so it is advisable to keep out of reach of pets and small children.