Hybrid East Lily Cactus

The Hybrid Easter Lily Cactus, commonly falling under the genus Echinopsis, is known for its spectacular blooms and ease of care. These hybrids are created by crossing different species within the Echinopsis genus, resulting in a wide variety of flower colors and forms.

Growing to about 6 to 12 inches in both height and spread, these cacti typically form rounded, low-growing clumps. They are characterized by their symmetrical, globular to columnar shapes, with ribbed bodies covered in spines. The spination can vary from soft and sparse to dense and sharp, depending on the specific hybrid.

One of the most striking aspects of the Hybrid Easter Lily Cactus is its flowers. These cacti produce large, showy blooms that are often quite large in comparison to the body of the cactus. The flowers come in an array of colors, including vibrant shades of pink, red, orange, yellow, and white. They typically bloom from late spring to early summer and can last for several days. The blooms often open in the evening and close by the next midday.

These hybrids prefer full sun to partial shade and require well-draining soil. They are relatively drought-tolerant, needing only occasional watering once established. Overwatering can lead to root rot, so it's important to let the soil dry out completely between waterings.

Hybrid Easter Lily Cacti are excellent choices for rock gardens, cactus and succulent gardens, and as container plants. Their stunning flowers make them a popular choice among gardeners and collectors. These cacti are also well-suited for those new to cactus gardening due to their low maintenance and ease of cultivation.

Overall, the Hybrid Easter Lily Cactus offers a delightful combination of attractive, sculptural foliage and spectacular flowering, making it a prized addition to any garden or collection of succulents and cacti.

Three Timbers Installation Guide (Feel Free to Follow): Hybrid East Lily Cactus

Planting Guide:

• Location: Full sun (at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily for optimal growth)
• Soil: Well-drained, sandy or rocky soil (slightly acidic to neutral soil preferred)
• Spacing: Space plants 3-4 feet apart to allow for their mature size and spiny growth
• Planting Depth: Plant at the same depth as the root ball, ensuring the top of the root ball is level with the surrounding soil surface
• Support: Hybrid East Lily Cactus grows upright and requires no staking

Watering Guide:

Watering After Planting:

• Initial Watering: Water thoroughly immediately after planting to saturate the root ball and surrounding soil
• Frequency: Water every 4-5 days for the first 2-3 weeks to help establish the root system
• Watering Amount: Provide 1-2 inches of water per session for deep watering

When is the Plant Established?

• Timeframe: Hybrid East Lily Cactus is considered established after 3-4 months when the roots have spread into the surrounding soil

Watering Once Established:

• Summer: Water every 14-21 days during the hotter months. If temperatures exceed 100°F, increase watering to every 10-14 days. Provide 2-3 inches of water per session.
• Winter: Water every 4-6 weeks during the cooler months, depending on rainfall.

Drip Irrigation Setup:

• Placement of Emitters: Place the drip emitters 18-24 inches away from the base of the cactus to ensure deep watering
• Flow Rate: Use emitters with a flow rate of 1-2 gallons per hour
• Number of Emitters: 1 emitter per plant for even watering distribution
• Adjusting Frequency: In summer, increase watering frequency to every 10-14 days. In winter, reduce to every 4-6 weeks