Stenocactus multicostatus

Stenocactus multicostatus, Brain Cactus or Wave Cactus is a choice and distinctive small spherical cactus from northern Mexico where it grows at elevations of between 700m to 2000m above sea level in high, dry uplands on rocky, grassy soil. Its many thin, crinkled, corrugated ribs makes it relatively easy to identify although the species itself, together with the colouration of the flower is variable. It is often seen listed under its synonyms, Echinofossulocactus multicostatus and Echinofossulocactus multicostatus var. zacatecasensis.

Stenocactus multicostatus is a small-growing cactus, ideal for indoor pot culture and is somewhat slow-growing becoming more cylindrical with age. It requires very little water and only in the growing season from March through to October. A liquid feed with a potassium-rich fertiliser (tomato food) will encourage it to flower. The flowers although smallish - about 2.5 to 3 cm wide - tend to dwarf the entire plant. They are rather variable in colour but typically are pinkish-white with a darker purple-magenta medial stripe. The anthers and stigma are pale creamy yellow. It will benefit from being given a spell outdoors in the sun during the summer months although for the first two-three weeks it should be in semi-shade to harden off and avoid scorching. Avoid full sun during this hardening off period.