Eriosyce senilis var. multicolor is a striking cactus species characterised by its spherical to slightly elongated body, covered with dense spines. These spines range in colour from white to reddish-brown, giving the cactus its "multicolour" appearance. The plant can produce vibrant funnel-shaped flowers, typically in shades of red, pink, or magenta, which emerge near the top of the cactus during the growing season. Eriosyce senilis var. multicolor is slow-growing and relatively small in size, making it a suitable plant for indoor cultivation.
In its natural environment, this cactus is adapted to arid conditions, which means it requires minimal watering and care when grown indoors. It prefers a well-draining soil mix and a dry environment between waterings, which prevents root rot. The striking contrast of the spines and colourful blooms makes it a visually interesting addition to any indoor cactus collection.
Native to: Eriosyce senilis var. multicolor is native to the coastal and mountainous regions of northern Chile. It thrives in rocky, well-drained soils in these dry environments, often growing on steep slopes where water drains quickly. The cactus has evolved to withstand harsh sunlight and minimal water availability, which makes it a hardy plant in indoor conditions when placed in bright light.
Water: This cactus requires very little water and should be watered sparingly. During the growing season (spring and summer), allow the soil to dry out completely between waterings. In autumn and winter, watering should be reduced significantly, to once a month or even less, to mimic its natural dry rest period.
Light: Eriosyce senilis var. multicolor thrives in bright, indirect light but can tolerate some direct sunlight, especially during the morning. Placing it near a south-facing window where it receives a few hours of sunlight is ideal. However, avoid exposing it to intense midday sun, which could scorch its surface.
Humidity: This cactus prefers low humidity and does well in the dry air typical of most indoor environments. High humidity can lead to fungal issues or rot, so it’s best to keep it in a well-ventilated space with good air circulation.
Temperature: Eriosyce senilis var. multicolor prefers warm temperatures ranging from 18°C to 26°C during the growing season. It can tolerate cooler temperatures down to 5°C in winter, but should be kept away from frost and cold drafts.
We offer free mainland delivery on all orders over £60
All plants are shipped using express next day services with DPD, UPS, Parcelforce and Royal Mail.
We offer economy shipping (3-5 day dispatch) and standard delivery (1-3 day dispatch).
For guaranteed next day dispatch please selected Express shipping at checkout available at an additional cost.
For a full breakdown of shipping prices please see our help center here.
Winter shipping is available in the winter months at an additional cost and includes heatpacks and thermal insulation where necessary.
For more information, please see our comprehensive shipping FAQs
All plants are shipped in their plastic nursery pot unless otherwise stated.
Plant pot sizes can fluctuate +/- 1cm.
We recommend to always size up your decorative pot by 1-2cm larger than the stated plant pot size. For example if you are purchasing a 12cm plant, you should purchase a 14cm decorative pot to ensure it will fit correctly.
We pride ourselves on the love and care with give our plants. Our entire team are plant obsessives at heart and so we go above and beyond to care for the plants we have in stock.
That said, plants are living beings and may differ slightly from the photo provided unless otherwise stated. Small leaf imperfections may be present and won't be compensated for. Some plants such as Begonia may suffer slight leaf melt when shipped. This is normal and nothing to be concerned about.
All our plants are stores and/or grown in our nursery under LED lighting. The conditions in our nursery are a minimum of 60% humidity and 19C year round.
