Description
Chamaecereus silvestrii is a species of cactus that belongs to the Cactaceae family. This cactus is also commonly known as "Peanut Cactus" or "Peanut Cactus from Silvestri." It is native to Argentina and Uruguay, where it can be found growing in rocky areas and dry regions.
The Peanut Cactus is a small, low-growing cactus with cylindrical or globular stems that are divided into segments. These segments have a distinct resemblance to peanuts, hence the common name. The stems are green and can grow up to about 4-6 inches (10-15 cm) in height, spreading out into clumps as the cactus matures.
Like many cacti, Chamaecereus silvestrii produces colorful flowers, which are usually small and bloom near the apex of the stems. The flowers can be shades of pink, red, or orange, and they add to the plant's overall appeal.
How to grow chamaecereus silvestrii Cactus
Echinopsis chamaecereus can be propagated by offsets or seeds. Each plant will produce plenty of offsets during its lifetime, and all you have to do is separate them from the parent plant and replant them in a fresh potting medium. Similarly, propagation by seeds is also easy. Simply sow them in a pot, provide high humidity and bright, indirect light, and seeds should germinate in a few weeks.
How to care for chamaecereus silvestrii Cactus
The peanut cactus is a low-maintenance cactus that is easy to grow both indoors and outdoors. Native to Argentina, this mountain-dwelling cactus enjoys bright, sunny conditions and infrequent watering. While the peanut cactus cannot tolerate frost, it does require cooler winter temperatures in order to set buds for the following growing season. Healthy peanut cacti will display beautiful red-orange flowers in the late spring to early summer.
Light
Like most cacti, the peanut cactus grows best in bright, sunny conditions. It cannot tolerate being grown in full shade or low-light conditions. When grown outdoors, plant the peanut cactus in a full-sun location. In consistently hot climates, this cactus might appreciate some shade to protect it from the intense afternoon sun. When grown indoors, place the peanut cactus in the sunniest location in your house. A bright west- or south-facing window is ideal.
Soil
In its native habitat, the peanut cactus grows in sandy, well-draining soil. If you are planting the peanut cactus outdoors, ensure that the soil is amended with plenty of sand and perlite to ensure water drains quickly from around the roots. The peanut cactus is susceptible to root rot and cannot tolerate sitting in water. When growing the peanut cactus indoors, a standard cactus or succulent potting soil is ideal.
Water
The peanut cactus is drought-tolerant thanks to its fleshy, water-storing stems and is easily susceptible to overwatering. Allow the soil to dry out thoroughly between waterings and then water deeply, soaking the soil completely. Cut back on watering in the winter when the cactus is dormant.
Temperature and Humidity
This cactus thrives in hot, dry climates and does not do well in moist environments. The peanut cactus is not frost-tolerant and can only grow outdoors year-round in USDA zones 10a to 11b. That being said, it is beneficial for the cactus to be exposed to cooler temperatures during the winter to mimic its natural environment and encourage blooming. Temperatures between 32 to 45 degrees Fahrenheit (0 to 7 degrees Celsius) are ideal. Average household humidity and temperature levels are usually acceptable for the peanut cactus, just avoid placing it in particularly humid locations of the home, such as the bathroom.
Fertilizer
The peanut cactus is not a heavy feeder and generally does not require regular fertilization. However, it can benefit from monthly fertilization during the first few months of the growing period with a balanced, low-strength fertilizer. Fertilizers designed for cacti and succulents are a great choice for the peanut cactus.