Espostoa mirabilis are attractive cactus species in the cactus world. They inherit a very unique look when compared to other cacti.
Further Espostoa mirabilis are native plants to Peru. They are bushy types of plants. The common name of these plants is flower of prayer.
It would be great picks for beginners in gardening. Besides, they need very easy maintenance.
This article is about how to look after them well and the proper care tips you need to practice when looking after them. So, buckle up and get ready to learn about these beauties.
How do I identify Espostoa mirabilis?
If you want to identify the Espostoa mirabilis, you can simply identify them by looking at their outer appearance. They tend to look like candles.
Further they consist of thorns and white hair. You will see how the mature Espostoa mirabilis are divided.
Chances are that you may spot them producing a cephalium when they are fully mature just like the Mexican genus Cephalocereus plants
Besides the aforesaid factors, you can use their flowering activity also to identify the Espostoa mirabilis plants. In fact, they produce flowers in white and off white and they will arise in spring to summer.
Size of the plant
They would rise up to a maximum height of 1.8 m. Further they would grow to a maximum width of 10.8 m too.
Growth rate
They cactus are a slow growing set of plants.
One look care guide
| Botanical Name | Espostoa mirabilis |
| Common Name | Flower of prayer |
| Plant Type | Cactus |
| Mature Size | 1.8 m tall and widespread |
| Sun Exposure | Full sunlight to partial shade |
| Soil Type | Well-draining |
| Soil pH | 6.1-7.8. This ( mildly acidic soil mix to mildly alkaline .) |
| Bloom Time | Spring or summer |
| Flower Color | White |
| Hardiness Zones | USDA hardiness zones 9b-11. |
| Native Area | Peru |
| Toxicity | Non toxic |
| Average price | 8 USD |
How do you take care of Espostoa mirabilis?
Light Requirement
In terms of providing the right light conditions for the Espostoa mirabilis plants, the most suitable light conditions which would suit them would be full sunlight to partial sunlight.
You can leave them under full sunlight for about 6 hours . Further you can expose them for partial shade during the rest of the day.
If you leave them exposed to intense sunlight, it will result in the scorching of the plants. Hence , be mindful not to leave them under scorching sunlight.
Temperature and humidity.
They would perform well if warmer temperatures are given to them. However , they cannot tolerate temperatures below 40 degrees Fahrenheit.
Hence you may either grow them as greenhouse plants or bring them indoors during such unhealthy weather.
Is it cold hardy?
USDA Hardiness Zone
They are hardy in USDA hardiness zones 9b-11. ( 25 degrees Fahrenheit – 40 degrees Fahrenheit ).
Watering Requirement
Espostoa mirabilis are drought tolerant plants which literally means they can go waterless for some time and still thrive well.
They have moderate water needs just like with the other cactus and the succulents. You should avoid over watering them as it could be the biggest mistake you would make when looking after them.
Underwatering would make less repercussions rather than over watering. Further it is easier to revive an under watered plant rather than reviving an overwatered plant.
Soil Requirement Type / ph.
If you grow the Espostoa mirabilis in dense compact soil, it will lead them to root rot. Hence grow them in a potting medium which has an excellent draining.
You need to be mindful of that specially during winter as the plant is prone for root rot during colder weather.
You may go ahead with a well-draining soil mix to grow the Espostoa mirabilis plants. That will make the excess moisture drain away from the draining holes without retaining in the pot.
The right pH of the soil should be 6.1 – 7.8. This literally means they will perform well in a mildly acidic soil mix to a mildly alkaline soil mix.)
Pot size Potting and Repotting.
You can proceed with unglazed pots , clay pots or terracotta pots to grow them. In addition to that, pots need to have sufficient draining holes too.
When it comes to repotting, you can repot them in slightly larger pots and in a fresh well-draining soil mix.
Flowers
Espostoa mirabilis produce flowers in white. Further you could spot them flowering in late spring or in early summer.
Fertilizer and time of year.
You may consider feeding the Espostoa mirabilis with a fertilizer during their active growing season.
Dormancy
Espostoa mirabilis are winter dormant plants.
Toxicity
They are not toxic to pets or human
Common bugs and illnesses
If you end up over watering the Espostoa mirabilis, it will make the plants rot.
Moreover, Espostoa mirabilis are prone towards the regular pests’ types such as mealybugs, aphids and scales etc.
If you practice correct care tips when looking after them, your Espostoa mirabilis plants will be pest free.
Special Care tips
Espostoa mirabilis consist of spines and sharp edges. So, protect yourself when interacting with the plants.
How to propagate Espostoa mirabilis
You can propagate the Espostoa mirabilis by using stem cutting and seeds.
If you wish to propagate the cutting, you simply have to let them callous and then grow them in a well-draining soil mix.
If you wish to use the seed propagation method, first you have to obtain the seeds from ripened fruit. Ensure that the seeds you are using are clean and dry. Next you can sow them.
Finally
To conclude, Espostoa mirabilis plants are plants which are worth having. Happy cultivating with Espostoa mirabilis.
Read Next : Melocactus Azureus | Awesome Frost Blue Succulent Care |
