Contents
Description
Echinocereus Polyacanthus, commonly known as the hedgehog cactus, is a beautiful cactus belonging to the Cactaceae family. This stunning plant has a cylindrical or globular shape and can grow up to 20 cm tall and 12 cm in diameter. It is famous for its gorgeous pink flowers that bloom in the spring and summer, making it a popular choice for gardeners and cactus enthusiasts.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Caryophyllales |
| Family | Cactaceae |
| Genus | Echinocereus |
Appearance
Echinocereus Polyacanthus has a cylindrical or globular stem with numerous ribs and sharp spines that can grow up to 2 cm long. The stem is usually green or grey-green, and it can have a bluish tint in some varieties. The plant produces beautiful pink flowers that bloom in the spring and summer, and they can be up to 5 cm in diameter. The flower petals are narrow and pointed, and they form a funnel shape around the center of the flower. The plant can also produce small edible fruits that are red or yellow in color.
Care Guide
Echinocereus Polyacanthus is a hardy plant that can tolerate drought and extreme temperatures. However, it still needs proper care to thrive.
Water
Water your hedgehog cactus once a week during the growing season (spring and summer) and reduce watering to once a month during the winter. Make sure to use well-draining soil and a pot with drainage holes to avoid root rot.
Fertilization
Fertilize your cactus once a month during the growing season with a fertilizer specifically formulated for cacti and succulents. Follow the instructions on the label and avoid over-fertilization, which can damage the plant.
Soil
Use a well-draining soil mix specifically formulated for cacti and succulents. You can also add perlite or sand to improve drainage.
Sunlight
Echinocereus Polyacanthus needs plenty of sunlight to thrive. Place it in a bright and sunny spot, preferably in a south-facing window. However, avoid exposing the plant to direct sunlight during the hottest part of the day, as it can cause sunburn.
Hardiness Zones
Echinocereus Polyacanthus is hardy in USDA zones 8-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Like all plants, Echinocereus Polyacanthus is susceptible to pests and diseases. Here are some common issues and how to deal with them:
Pests
- Spider mites: These tiny pests can cause discoloration and webbing on the plant. Remove them by wiping the plant with a damp cloth and using a miticide if necessary.
- Mealybugs: These pests look like white cottony spots on the plant. Remove them by wiping the plant with a cotton swab dipped in alcohol and using an insecticide if necessary.
Diseases
- Root rot: This disease is caused by overwatering and poor drainage. To prevent it, make sure to use well-draining soil and a pot with drainage holes.
- Scab: This disease causes scabby spots on the plant. Remove infected parts and treat with a fungicide if necessary.
Habitat
Echinocereus Polyacanthus is native to the southwestern United States and northern Mexico. It grows in rocky and sandy soils in desert and semi-desert habitats, often in association with other cacti species.
Question and Answer
Q: How often should I water my Echinocereus Polyacanthus?
A: Water your hedgehog cactus once a week during the growing season (spring and summer) and reduce watering to once a month during the winter.
Q: What is the best soil mix for Echinocereus Polyacanthus?
A: Use a well-draining soil mix specifically formulated for cacti and succulents. You can also add perlite or sand to improve drainage.
Q: Can Echinocereus Polyacanthus tolerate extreme temperatures?
A: Yes, it is a hardy plant that can tolerate drought and extreme temperatures.
Q: How do I deal with spider mites on my Echinocereus Polyacanthus?
A: Remove them by wiping the plant with a damp cloth and using a miticide if necessary.
Related Plants
- Echinocereus viridiflorus
- Echinocereus triglochidiatus
- Echinocereus engelmannii
- Echinocereus scheeri
References
- “Echinocereus polyacanthus.” Cactus and Succulent Society of America. Accessed August 10, 2021. https://cssainc.org/echinocereus-polyacanthus/.
- “Echinocereus polyacanthus.” World of Succulents. Accessed August 10, 2021. https://worldofsucculents.com/echinocereus-polyacanthus-hedgehog-cactus/.
- “Hedgehog Cactus (Echinocereus polyacanthus).” Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum. Accessed August 10, 2021. https://www.desertmuseum.org/kids/oz/long-fact-sheets/Hedgehog%20Cactus.php.
