Espostoa is a genus of columnar cacti, comprising 16 species known from the Andes of southern Ecuador and Peru. It usually lives at an altitude of between 800m and 2500m. Its fruit is edible, sweet, and juicy. The genus is named after Nicolas E. Esposto, a renowned botanist from Lima.[1]
Members of this genus are similar to those in the Mexican genus Cephalocereus. They have pink-white flowers, and are covered with spines and white hair. In adulthood, a cephalium sometimes appears, similar to the Mexican genus Cephalocereus.[2] Only the older specimens can divide.
They were discovered by Alexander von Humboldt and Aimé Bonpland in the early nineteenth century.
They are appreciated for their decorative qualities due to their white fleece. They can be propagated by seed. For full development they must be planted in the ground. The cultivated specimens very rarely flourish.
Like all cacti, Espostoa requires a sunny location and well-drained soil. But in summer, it appreciates fertilizer and wetter conditions. In winter, it needs a rest, but the temperature must not drop below 12 °C.
, Plants of the World Online accepted the following species:[3]
| Image | Scientific name | Distribution |
|---|---|---|
| Espostoa blossfeldiorum | Peru | |
| Espostoa calva | Peru (Amazonas) | |
| Espostoa cremnophila | Peru | |
| Espostoa frutescens | Ecuador | |
| Espostoa hylaea | Peru (Amazonas) | |
| Espostoa lanata | Ecuador, Peru | |
| Espostoa melanostele | Peru | |
| Espostoa mirabilis | Peru (Huanuco) | |
| Espostoa senilis | Peru (Ancash) | |
| Espostoa superba | Peru (Ancash) | |
| Espostoa utcubambensis | Peru (Amazonas) | |