Echinopsis
Echinopsis, commonly known as the Sea Urchin Cactus, is a captivating genus of flowering succulents prized for their spectacular, large blooms. While primarily ornamental in horticulture, various species hold traditional medicinal significance, often utilized in folk remedies for their potential anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and antioxidant properties within diverse botanical practices.
- Scientific name: Echinopsis
- Family: Cactaceae
- Native range: Europe
Taxonomical Classification
This plant belongs to the kingdom Plantae and the phylum Streptophyta, falling under the class Equisetopsida and subclass Magnoliidae. Within the order Caryophyllales, it is classified under the family Cactaceae. Finally, it is identified by the genus Echinopsis.
| Rank | Classification | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae | WCVP |
| Phylum | Streptophyta | WCVP |
| Class | Equisetopsida | WCVP |
| Subclass | Magnoliidae | WCVP |
| Order | Caryophyllales | WCVP |
| Family | Cactaceae | WCVP |
| Genus | Echinopsis | WCVP |
Distribution
This plant exhibits a diverse geographical distribution across several Mediterranean regions. In Southwestern Europe, its presence is noted within the Baleares and throughout mainland Spain. Its range extends into Southeastern Europe, specifically reaching the island of Sicilia. Furthermore, the species is found in Northern Africa, particularly in Tunisia. Finally, its habitat includes the Macaronesian region, specifically the Canary Islands.
| Region | Area | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Southwestern Europe | Baleares | WCVP |
| Southwestern Europe | Spain | WCVP |
| Southeastern Europe | Sicilia | WCVP |
| Northern Africa | Tunisia | WCVP |
| Macaronesia | Canary Is. | WCVP |
| Southern Africa | Cape Provinces | WCVP |
| Southern Africa | Lesotho | WCVP |
| Southern Africa | KwaZulu-Natal | WCVP |
| Southern Africa | Free State | WCVP |
| Southern Africa | Northern Provinces | WCVP |
Activities
Echinopsis has 1 reported activities identified across 1 scientific publications and several other databases. The most consistently reported activities include Psychoactive.
- Total activities
- 1
- Scientific sources
- 1
Most Reported Activities
| Activity | Sources | Confidence |
|---|---|---|
| Psychoactive | 1 | ★☆☆☆☆ |