Sea Urchin Cactus Echinopsis 'Lincoln Charm'
ABOUT
Echinopsis 'Lincoln Charm' is a captivating succulent that boasts a significant visual appeal. It has a globular to cylindrical shape, often with a symmetrical form that catches the eye. The surface of this plant is adorned with a series of ribs running along its body, giving it a distinct texture and providing a clue to its drought-resistant nature. Between these ribs, you will find areoles—small, cushion-like mounds from which spines emerge. The spines can vary in color but are most commonly light yellow to white, contrasting nicely against the green to blue-green hue of the plant's flesh. One of the most striking features of the 'Lincoln Charm' is its flowers. They are large, bold, and showy, often surprising in size compared to the body of the cactus. The blossoms come in an array of colors depending on the particular hybrid, but they tend to have a soft, almost translucent quality, with hues blending together seamlessly. Many have a satiny sheen and can appear to glow when they catch the light just right. These flowers make the plant highly ornamental. The 'Lincoln Charm', despite its sturdy look, is not all hard edges; the flowers provide a delicate balance, with petals that can be ruffled or smoothly tapered. After blooming, the plant may produce fruit, which adds yet another layer of interest to its overall appearance. As this cactus matures, it can produce offsets or "pups" from its base, forming clusters that give it a fuller, more robust presence. The formation of these pups continues to contribute to the ornamental value of the plant, making it a popular choice among gardeners and collectors who appreciate its distinctive look and charming floral displays.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Cactaceae.
Synonyms
Sea Urchin Cactus, Easter Lily Cactus, Hedgehog Cactus, Torch Cactus.
Common names
Echinopsis 'Lincoln Charm'.
ToxicityTo humans
The Echinopsis 'Lincoln Charm', commonly known as the Easter lily cactus, is not considered toxic to humans. Ingesting parts of the plant typically does not lead to poisoning or serious consequences for human health. However, as with any non-food plant, if ingested in large quantities it can potentially cause stomach upset or discomfort due to the fibrous plant material.
To pets
The Easter lily cactus is not known for being toxic to pets. Although not specifically poisonous, if a pet were to ingest parts of the cactus, it could experience mild gastrointestinal upset due to the plant's fibrous nature. It's always wise to discourage pets from eating plants, as individual reactions can vary and sharp spines can cause physical injury.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Evergreen
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Pink
Height
6 inches (15 cm)
Spread
6 inches (15 cm)
Plant type
Cactus
Hardiness zones
9
Native area
South America
Benefits
General Benefits- Aesthetic Appeal: Echinopsis 'Lincoln Charm', commonly known as the Sea-urchin Cactus, adds ornamental value to gardens with its attractive flowers and unique shape.
- Low Maintenance: This cactus requires minimal care, making it ideal for busy gardeners or those new to plant care.
- Drought Tolerance: It is highly resilient in dry conditions, conserving water effectively and thriving with limited resources.
- Adaptability: The Sea-urchin Cactus can adapt to various soil types, as long as they provide good drainage.
- Pollinator Attraction: The flowers of the Sea-urchin Cactus attract pollinators like bees and butterflies, aiding in the pollination of surrounding plants.
- Year-Round Interest: Even when not in bloom, the cactus's structure adds visual interest throughout the year.
- Space Efficiency: Its compact size allows it to fit into smaller gardens or containers, making it versatile for different types of spaces.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Echinopsis 'Lincoln Charm', commonly known as Easter lily cactus, can be used in sand art projects due to its colorful flowers, adding a natural element to the design.
- The spines of the Easter lily cactus can be used for traditional textile weaving in some cultures, serving as natural needles.
- The sturdy skin of the cactus can be a canvas for miniature paintings, especially after it has dried out, providing a unique texture for artists.
- The Easter lily cactus is often used in Feng Shui practices to attract positive energy into homes because of its harmonious flower shapes.
- Segments of the Easter lily cactus are sometimes used in rustic jewelry making, where dried pieces are decorated or encased in resin.
- The cactus can be used as a natural barrier in gardens to deter small animals and pests due to its spiny exterior.
- During blooming, the cactus can act as a natural centerpiece for outdoor tables, enhancing the ambience with its attractive flowers.
- Its ability to thrive in harsh conditions makes the Easter lily cactus a symbol of perseverance, often gifted to encourage resilience.
- Easter lily cactus can serve as educational tools in botany classes to demonstrate the adaptations of desert plants to students.
- The fallen petals of the cactus can be used to create natural dyes for fabrics, although this is not a common practice.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Echinopsis cactus, commonly known as Sea Urchin Cactus or Easter Lily Cactus, is believed to have protective qualities in Feng Shui. It is often used to absorb negative energy and can be placed in areas where you want to establish a strong, protective energy. However, its spiky appearance should be considered, and it might be best to place it in less trafficked areas where it won't create 'poison arrows' of energy, which are Feng Shui terms for sharp energy directed towards a space.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Easter Lily Cactus is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Resilience: Echinopsis, commonly known as the Sea-urchin cactus or Easter lily cactus, is known for its ability to thrive in harsh environments, symbolizing the ability to endure and overcome difficulties.
- Beauty and Surprise: With its unassuming cactus form giving way to beautiful flowers, the Sea-urchin cactus represents the unexpected beauty that can emerge from unlikely places.
- Patience: Since this cactus blooms infrequently and flowers may only last for a short time, it embodies patience and the idea of waiting for the right moment to shine.
- Adaptability: As a plant that is able to adapt to a wide range of temperatures, the Sea-urchin cactus symbolizes the ability to adapt and thrive in various conditions.
- Balance: Its growth pattern and the symmetrical arrangement of its spines can be seen as a symbol of balance and harmony, representing the importance of a balanced approach to life.
WaterFor the Echinopsis 'Lincoln Charm', commonly known as Sea Urchin Cactus, water the plant every two to three weeks during the active growing season in spring and summer. Ensure the soil is completely dry between waterings. When watering, soak the soil thoroughly until water runs out of the bottom of the pot—use about 8-16 ounces of water for a small pot. Reduce watering to once a month in the fall and withhold water completely during the winter dormancy period to prevent root rot.
LightSea Urchin Cactus thrives in conditions where it can receive full sun to partial shade. The ideal location would be a spot where it can get direct sunlight for at least four to six hours a day. However, it is crucial to protect it from the intense midday sun during the peak summer months to avoid scorching its skin.
TemperatureSea Urchin Cactus prefers warm temperatures and does best when the ambient temperature ranges from 50°F to 90°F. It can survive minimum temperatures down to about 40°F, but frost can be harmful, so it's important to keep it in an area that's free from freezing conditions. The ideal temperature range for robust growth is between 70°F and 80°F.
PruningPruning a Sea Urchin Cactus is mostly done to remove dead or damaged spines or flowers and to maintain its shape. Pruning is not frequently required but can be done as needed, typically after the blooming season. The best time to prune is during the cactus's dormant period in the late fall or winter. Use sterilized, sharp tools to make clean cuts.
CleaningAs needed
SoilThe best soil mix for Echinopsis 'Lincoln Charm,' commonly known as Easter Lily Cactus, should have good drainage and consist of a mix of potting soil, coarse sand, and perlite or pumice in a 1:1:1 ratio. The ideal pH for this cactus is slightly acidic to neutral, ranging from 5.5 to 7.0.
RepottingEaster Lily Cactus should be repotted every 2 to 3 years or when the plant has outgrown its pot. It's best to repot during the plant's active growing season, which is spring or early summer.
Humidity & MistingEaster Lily Cactus thrives in low humidity environments typical of arid regions. The best humidity level for this cactus is between 10% and 30%.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place near a sunny window, ensure good air circulation.
Outdoor
Plant in sunny spot with well-draining soil.
Hardiness zone
9-11 USDA
Life cycle'Lincoln Charm' Echinopsis, also known as 'Lincoln Charm' Cactus, begins its life cycle as a seed, which germinates in warm, moist soil within a few weeks to a few months under optimal conditions. The seedling stage sees the emergence of a small cactus pup that starts to photosynthesize and develop its characteristic spines and ribbed structure. As it matures into a juvenile plant, the cactus increases in size and may start to produce offsets, or "pups," which can be detached to form new plants. The adult Echinopsis 'Lincoln Charm' reaches flowering maturity in several years, producing large, colorful, and fragrant blooms that open at night and last for a short period, often only a single day. After pollination, which is frequently facilitated by nocturnal insects like moths, the flowers produce fruit that contains seeds, thus completing the reproductive cycle. The Echinopsis 'Lincoln Charm' can live for many years, continuing to grow and bloom seasonally, with each cycle contributing to the propagation of the species.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring to Summer
Echinopsis 'Lincoln Charm', commonly known as the Lincoln Charm cactus, is typically propagated by offshoots which is the most popular method. This process is best carried out in late spring to early summer when the plant is actively growing. To propagate by offshoots, one should gently remove a pup from the base of the mother plant, taking care not to damage the parent or the offshoot. The removed pup should then be allowed to dry for a few days until the cut surface forms a callous, which helps prevent rot when planted. After the callous has formed, plant the pup in well-draining cactus soil, setting it just deep enough to stand upright. Provide minimal watering just to moisten the soil until the pup establishes roots, which usually takes a few weeks. Once rooted, the new Lincoln Charm cactus can be cared for in the same way as the parent plant.
