Echinocereus pentalophus aka Ladyfinger Cactus

Echinocereus pentalophus, or ladyfinger cactus, belongs to the cactus family. Kew places its native range in eastern Mexico, reaching Jalisco. It grows in dry shrubland and desert settings. Other reported sites include pine-oak woods, sandy grassland, and limestone cliffs. It occurs from sea level to about 4,590 feet [1,400 metres].

This succulent forms clumps of crowded, slender stems. These may stand upright or sprawl across the ground. RHS gives a garden size of 0.3–1.6 feet [0.1–0.5 metres] in height and spread. Its description places the low stems near 0.7 feet [0.2 metres] tall. LLIFLE reports established mats reaching 3.3 feet [1 metre] across. The stems branch above ground and remain fairly weak. Their colours range from yellow-green to dark green or reddish purple. Raised ribs run along each stem, with small, low bumps. Short, stiff radial spines may be brown, yellowish, tan, or pale grey. A central spine may be absent or occur singly.

Large flowers can cover much of the clump when open. Their colours include lilac, bright pink, and magenta. A white throat marks the centre of each bloom. RHS records flowers about 0.33 feet [0.10 metres] across. LLIFLE gives a flower length of 0.39 feet [0.12 metres]. Flowering falls in April and May in LLIFLE's account. RHS places it in early summer. Green fruits with white flesh follow three to four months later.

Give this cactus full sun and a freely draining cactus mix. RHS accepts loam or sand across a broad pH range. LLIFLE favours acidic compost and warns against lime-rich mixes. Water moderately from mid-spring through early autumn, then keep it dry. Excess water can cause rot, despite its tolerance of drought. A cool winter rest helps it set flower buds. RHS rates it H2, so frost protection remains the safer approach. LLIFLE reports brief survival near 23°F [-5°C] under dry conditions.

Grow it in pots, on sheltered patios, or under glass. RHS also lists it as a houseplant for suitable bright conditions. Its low clumps and large blooms provide its main display. It needs no pruning. Seeds, offsets, and stem cuttings offer ways to raise more plants. RHS reports few disease problems, but mealybugs and scale may occur.