E. phyllacanthus v violaciflorus NAGL 83.022

Identifying the species of an Echinofossulocactus is as difficult as identifying the genus is easy. For the most part, they tend to look alike, and there are far more names than there are species.
 

A very nice form with thin needle like spines.

Stenocactus (E.) phyllacanthus it is one of the best of the genus.

Description: Generally solitary round cactus with white spines and numerous wavy ribs. Older plants sometimes get corky near the base.
Flowers: Abundant cream and violet-brown flowers.

Note: It is frequently on sale a  very handsome form but very different plant (likewise labelled E. phyllacanthus violaciflorus) with dark red thin, needle-like spines.

 

Culture: Easy to to care and flower. No absolute schedule can be given for watering as  various factors (Soil mixture, containers, drainage, temperature, size of plant) influence water use, so  - as a general rule - the soil should be thoroughly wetted at each watering during the active growing season (spring and summer), water when the top 1,5- 2 cm of soil feels dry to the finger. Do not soak the soil during the dormant period. Be careful, excessive watering can make root and/or stem to rots. Make sure there is good air circulation between plants. Good drainage is essential along good moisture retention properties and adequate nutrients availability. Require bright sunlight to grow well. Dormant plants do best at temperatures from 5-10°C (but will tolerate -5° for short periods). The cooler temperatures develop sturdier plants and encourage the formation of flower buds.
Pests: The narrow ribs, the wooly areoles, and the dense spines are an ideal habitat for mealy bugs. Frequent inspection of the plants will prevent them from spreading.

Scientific name: Stenocactus phyllacanthus (A. Dietrich et Otto) A. Berger ex A. W. Hill 1933, (Mexico)

• Echinofossulocactus phyllacanthus (A. Dietrich et Otto) Lawrence 18
  = Echinocactus phyllacanthus A. Dietrich et Otto 1836
  = Ferocactus phyllacanthus (A. Dietrich et Otto) N. P. Taylor 1980
  = Brittonrosea phyllacantha
  = Efossus phyllacanthus
• Echinofossulocactus tricuspidatus (Scheidweiler) Britton et Rose 1922 
  = Echinocactus tricuspidatus Scheidweiler 1841
  = Stenocactus tricuspidatus (Scheidweiler) A. Berger 1929

Stenocactus (E.) tricuspidatus  (a multiheaded species) has been moved into S. phyllacanthus in the most recent revisions.
 

The beautiful  flowers (thin spined type)

New spines are  red