Echinocereus reichenbachii aka Lace Cactus

Echinocereus reichenbachii is remarkably cold-hardy for a cactus. It can tolerate temperatures as low as -10°F (-23°C) and some varieties can survive down to -25°C (-13°F) if kept dry during winter. During the growing season, it thrives in warm temperatures typical of its native Chihuahuan Desert habitat. Protect from frost if the soil is wet, as cold combined with moisture leads to rot.

During spring and summer (the active growing season), water moderately when the soil dries out and fertilize 2-3 times with balanced fertilizer. Gradually reduce watering in fall. In winter, the cactus enters dormancy and requires no water at all - keeping it completely dry is essential for cold tolerance and preventing rot. Resume watering slowly in spring as new growth appears.

Yes, Echinocereus reichenbachii produces fragrant flowers. The large pink to purple blooms have a light, pleasant scent that helps attract pollinating insects. The flowers open during the day and close at night, often reopening for a second day. The fragrance adds to the appeal of the already spectacular floral display.

Echinocereus reichenbachii has six recognized subspecies: the nominate form, subsp. armatus, subsp. baileyi (endemic to Oklahoma's Wichita Mountains with long bristle-like spines), subsp. burrensis, subsp. fitchii (with brown central spines and slightly scented pink-purple flowers), and subsp. perbellus (with fewer radials and found in Colorado, New Mexico, and Texas). The variety albertii (black lace cactus) is listed as endangered since 1979.

Yes, this is one of the most cold-hardy cacti and grows well outdoors in USDA zones 5-10. Plant in full sun with excellent drainage. The key to outdoor success is keeping the plant dry during winter - wet soil combined with cold causes fatal rot. Some varieties like subsp. baileyi from Oklahoma tolerate even colder temperatures to zone 4.

Echinocereus reichenbachii can be propagated by seeds or offsets. For seeds, collect them from ripe fruit (which develops 6-10 weeks after flowering) and sow in well-draining cactus mix. For offsets, wait until the plant produces side branches, then carefully separate them from the mother plant, allow the cut end to dry and callous for several days, and plant in gritty, well-draining soil. Offset propagation is faster but seed-grown plants are also relatively easy.

Repot Echinocereus reichenbachii every 2-3 years or when it outgrows its container. Because this cactus grows slowly, frequent repotting is not necessary. The best time to repot is in spring at the start of the growing season. Use a well-draining cactus mix with added grit or perlite. Choose a pot only slightly larger than the current one, as cacti prefer somewhat confined root space. Allow the soil to dry before repotting and wait a week before watering after repotting to prevent rot.

Echinocereus reichenbachii is susceptible to mealybugs and scale insects, which appear as cottony white masses or brown bumps on the stems. Treat infestations with rubbing alcohol on a cotton swab or insecticidal soap. The plant is generally disease-free but highly prone to root rot if overwatered. Ensure excellent drainage and let soil dry completely between waterings. Avoid water collecting in stem crevices, especially in cool conditions.

Echinocereus reichenbachii is pollinated by insects, primarily bees and other flying insects attracted by the fragrant, brightly colored flowers. The pink to purple blooms open during the day and produce a light scent that serves as an olfactory signal to pollinators. For manual pollination, use a small paintbrush to transfer pollen from the yellow stamens to the green stigma. Fruits develop 6-10 weeks after successful pollination.

Echinocereus reichenbachii is naturally a slow-growing cactus - this is normal, not a problem. RHS notes it takes 10-20 years to reach full height of only 30cm. However, if growth seems exceptionally slow, check for adequate light (needs full sun), ensure you're watering during the growing season (spring/summer), and fertilize 2-3 times during active growth. Avoid overwatering, which can damage roots and stunt growth. Cold temperatures or winter dormancy also pause growth naturally.