RedCrocus Peanut Cactus Live Plant - Echinopsis chamaecereus - Trailing, Drought-Tolerant Succulent for Bright Light, Hanging Pots or Windowsills 6" Hanging Basket
RedCrocus Peanut Cactus Live Plant - Echinopsis chamaecereus - Trailing, Drought-Tolerant Succulent for Bright Light, Hanging Pots or Windowsills 6" Hanging Basket
SKU:berd9e3-redcrocus
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Cactus - Peanut
Description
Known commonly as Peanut Cactus, this petite, clustering species forms many finger-like, segmented stems that trail and mound attractively over time. Native to northwestern Argentina and widely grown as Echinopsis (syn. Chamaecereus) chamaecereus, it produces a profusion of vivid, funnel-shaped blossoms in late spring to early summer when given bright light and a cool, dry winter rest. Stems are softly spined, making it friendlier to handle than many cacti, and its modest size suits windowsills, shallow bowls, and hanging planters. Low water needs, excellent drought tolerance, and dependable flowering make it an easy, rewarding succulent for beginners and collectors alike.
Suggested Uses
- Sunny windowsills
- Hanging baskets
- Rock and xeric gardens
- Succulent dish gardens
- Patio containers
- Pollinator-friendly blooms
Quick Highlights
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Light
Full sun to very bright light (4–6+ hrs). Acclimate gradually to direct sun, especially behind glass.
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Bloom
Late spring to early summer; spectacular, short-lived flowers, often in waves when well-rested over winter.
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Habit
Low, clustering, trailing stems; ideal for shallow pots and hanging planters.
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Resilience
Drought tolerant; generally deer-resistant; handles brief heat when shaded in peak afternoon.
Plant Details
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Botanical NameCactus - Peanut
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Common NameCactus - Peanut (Peanut Cactus)
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Size & Growth3–6 in tall (8–15 cm); spreads 12–24 in (30–60 cm) by clumping and trailing; offsets freely.
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Hardiness ZonesUSDA 9b–11 outdoors (to ~25°F/-4°C if very dry). Widely grown as a houseplant in colder zones.
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Foliage TypeEvergreen succulent stems; finger-like segments with soft to moderate spines.
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Bloom TimeLate spring to early summer; repeat flushes possible with excellent light and cool, dry winter rest.
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Growth RateModerate to fast under bright light; rapidly makes attractive clumps.
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Light RequirementsFull sun to bright, filtered light; 4–6+ hours daily for best flowering.
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Attracts PollinatorsYes — bees and other beneficials are drawn to the vivid flowers.
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Indoor FriendlyExcellent on bright sills; a cool, bright winter (45–55°F / 7–13°C) promotes buds.
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Container FriendlyThrives in shallow, free-draining pots and hanging baskets; top-dress with gravel.
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Deer ResistantGenerally deer-resistant due to spines and texture.
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Pet WarningConsidered non-toxic, but spines can injure pets and people. Place out of high-traffic areas.
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FragrantNot notably fragrant; flowers prized for color and abundance.
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Cut FlowerNot typically used as a cut flower; blooms are short-lived on the plant.
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Grows Well WithGrows Well With Other sun-loving, arid succulents: Rebutia, Mammillaria, Echinopsis hybrids, Delosperma, hardy Sedum.
Care Tips
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Planting InstructionsUse a pot with ample drainage (terra-cotta ideal). Set at the same depth; gently firm mix and top with gravel to keep stems dry. Best time to pot or divide is spring after bloom.
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Soil MoistureWater thoroughly, then allow the mix to dry at least 70–100% before watering again. Keep almost dry in winter to encourage flowering.
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Soil TypeFast-draining cactus mix: ~50–70% mineral (pumice/perlite/coarse sand) + 30–50% well-aerated organic component. Neutral to slightly acidic pH.
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HumidityPrefers low to average household humidity and good air movement; avoid persistently damp, stagnant conditions.
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Pruning InstructionsRemove spent blooms and shriveled or damaged stems with clean snips. Divide offsets to control spread or to propagate.
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Winter CareProvide a bright, cool rest (45–55°F / 7–13°C) and keep nearly dry. Protect from hard frost; outdoors, keep bone-dry during cold snaps.
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Planting DepthSet crowns level with the soil surface. Allow cut offsets to callus 3–7 days before placing slightly shallow in dry mix; wait a week to water.
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FertilizationLight feeder. Apply a low-nitrogen cactus fertilizer (e.g., 5-10-10) at 1/4 strength monthly from spring to midsummer; none in fall/winter.
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Special CareAcclimate gradually to direct sun; rotate pot for even growth. Watch for mealybugs and spider mites; improve airflow if humid. Repot every 2–3 years after flowering.