Echinopsis pachanoi (San Pedro Cactus)

The San Pedro Cactus (Echinopsis pachanoi) is a fast-growing, columnar cactus native to the Andes Mountains of South America. Known for its tall, green, ribbed stems and occasional white night-blooming flowers, it has become a popular ornamental and landscape cactus in Australia. When grown in the right conditions, it can reach impressive heights and serve as a striking feature plant in gardens or large containers.

Quick Answers to Common Questions

How fast does Echinopsis pachanoi grow? In warm climates with good care, this cactus can grow 30–60 cm per year.
Can San Pedro Cactus grow in pots? Yes, provided the pot is deep, well-draining, and positioned in full sun.
When does it flower? Echinopsis pachanoi produces large, fragrant, white flowers at night, usually in summer when mature.
Does it need much water? Only water when the soil is fully dry, and reduce watering in winter to prevent rot.

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How to Grow and Care for Echinopsis pachanoi

Echinopsis pachanoi thrives in conditions that replicate its native high-altitude desert environment. Success with this cactus relies on proper sunlight, soil, and watering practices.

Sunlight & Positioning

Plant your San Pedro Cactus in a full sun location for maximum growth. Outdoors, choose a position with at least six hours of sunlight per day. If starting indoors, gradually acclimate it to direct sun to avoid sunburn.

Soil & Watering

This cactus prefers well-draining soil, ideally a cactus or succulent mix with added sand, perlite, or pumice. Water deeply but infrequently, allowing the soil to dry completely between waterings. In winter, water only enough to prevent the roots from drying out.

Fertilising & Maintenance

Feed lightly in spring and summer with a balanced, low-nitrogen fertiliser to encourage strong vertical growth and healthy green color. Trim off any damaged sections to prevent disease and maintain shape.

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Flowering, Propagation & Seasonal Care

Mature San Pedro Cacti reward growers with spectacular white, night-blooming flowers that can reach 20 cm across. These flowers often appear in summer and are highly fragrant, attracting pollinators. Flowering typically begins when the plant is several years old and over 1 m tall.

Propagation Tips

Echinopsis pachanoi is easy to propagate via stem cuttings. Allow cut ends to callous for 1–2 weeks before planting in dry, sandy soil. Roots will develop in a few weeks, after which normal care can resume.

Seasonal Care

– Spring & Summer: Active growth and flowering; fertilise lightly and water more often. – Autumn: Begin reducing water as temperatures cool. – Winter: Keep dry and protect from frost; this dormant period helps prevent rot.

CompleteGrow Recommendation: For strong column growth and vibrant color, feed with our Cactus Succulent Plant Food Fertiliser Concentrate (2‑7‑7) during the active growing months.