Coryphantha Echinus
Contents
Description
Coryphantha Echinus, also known as hedgehog cactus, is a species of cacti native to Mexico and the United States. It belongs to the family Cactaceae and is characterized by its cylindrical stem that grows up to 30 cm tall and 8 cm in diameter. The stem is usually green or brown in color and covered with numerous spines that can be up to 4 cm long. This cactus produces beautiful flowers that usually bloom in spring or summer. The flowers are pink, magenta, or purple in color and can grow up to 4 cm in diameter. The fruit of Coryphantha Echinus is small and red, and it contains numerous seeds that can be used for propagation.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Caryophyllales |
| Family | Cactaceae |
| Genus | Coryphantha |
| Species | Echinus |
Appearance
Coryphantha Echinus is a small and slow-growing cactus that can reach up to 30 cm in height and 8 cm in diameter. Its stem is cylindrical and covered with numerous spines that can be up to 4 cm long. The stem is usually green or brown in color, and it can have up to 25 ribs that are slightly raised.This cactus produces beautiful flowers that usually bloom in spring or summer. The flowers are pink, magenta, or purple in color and can grow up to 4 cm in diameter. The fruit of Coryphantha Echinus is small and red, and it contains numerous seeds that can be used for propagation.
Care Guide
Coryphantha Echinus is a relatively easy plant to care for. Here are some tips:Water: This cactus prefers well-draining soil and does not like to be overwatered. Water it only when the soil is completely dry, and make sure to avoid getting water on the stem or flowers.Fertilization: This cactus does not require frequent fertilization. You can feed it with a balanced fertilizer once a month during the growing season (spring and summer).Soil: Coryphantha Echinus prefers well-draining soil that is slightly acidic. You can use a cactus or succulent mix, or make your own by mixing sand, perlite, and peat moss.Sunlight: This cactus prefers bright, indirect sunlight. It can also tolerate some direct sunlight, but avoid exposing it to the hot afternoon sun.Hardiness Zones: Coryphantha Echinus is hardy in USDA zones 9-11. If you live in a colder climate, make sure to protect it from frost and freeze.
Common Pests & Diseases
Coryphantha Echinus is generally a healthy plant, but it can be susceptible to some pests and diseases. Here are some common ones:Pests: This cactus can be attacked by mealybugs, spider mites, and scale insects. You can remove them by using a cotton swab dipped in alcohol or insecticidal soap.Diseases: Coryphantha Echinus can be affected by root rot, which is caused by overwatering or poor drainage. To prevent it, make sure to water it only when the soil is completely dry, and use well-draining soil.
Habitat
Coryphantha Echinus is native to Mexico and the United States, where it grows in dry, rocky areas with well-drained soil. It can be found in deserts, grasslands, and open woodlands.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Coryphantha Echinus be propagated from cuttings?
A: Yes, you can propagate this cactus from stem cuttings. Let the cutting dry for a few days before planting it in well-draining soil.Q: How often should I fertilize Coryphantha Echinus?
A: You can fertilize this cactus once a month during the growing season (spring and summer).Q: Does Coryphantha Echinus require a lot of sunlight?
A: This cactus prefers bright, indirect sunlight. It can also tolerate some direct sunlight, but avoid exposing it to the hot afternoon sun.Q: How often should I water Coryphantha Echinus?
A: Water this cactus only when the soil is completely dry. Depending on the temperature and humidity, it can be once a week to once a month.
Related Plants
Here are some related plants to Coryphantha Echinus:- Coryphantha sulcata- Coryphantha vivipara- Echinocactus grusonii- Ferocactus latispinus- Mammillaria elongata
References
– “Coryphantha Echinus” Missouri Botanical Garden- “Hedgehog Cactus” Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum- “Coryphantha Echinus” Cactus Art Nursery
