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Description
Echinocereus Engelmannii, also known as the Engelmann’s hedgehog cactus or the strawberry cactus, is a cactus species that belongs to the Cactaceae family. It is native to the southwestern United States and northern Mexico. The plant typically grows up to 1 foot (30 cm) tall and 1 foot (30 cm) wide. It has a globular or cylindrical shape, with numerous spines and small hairs covering its surface. During the spring and summer months, Echinocereus Engelmannii produces vibrant pink to purple flowers that bloom at night and attract pollinators such as moths and hummingbirds.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Caryophyllales |
| Family | Cactaceae |
| Genus | Echinocereus |
Appearance
Echinocereus Engelmannii has a distinctive appearance, with a rounded or cylindrical shape and numerous spines and small hairs covering its surface. The plant typically grows up to 1 foot (30 cm) tall and 1 foot (30 cm) wide. Its flowers are pink to purple in color, and bloom from spring to summer. The flowers are about 1.5 inches (4 cm) in diameter and are followed by small, red, edible fruits that are about 1 inch (2.5 cm) in diameter.
Care Guide
To care for Echinocereus Engelmannii, follow these guidelines:Water: Water the plant sparingly, only when the soil is completely dry. Avoid overwatering, as this can lead to root rot.Fertilization: Fertilize the plant once a month during the growing season (spring and summer) with a cactus fertilizer.Soil: Use a well-draining soil mix that is specifically formulated for cacti and succulents.Sunlight: Echinocereus Engelmannii requires full sunlight to thrive. Place the plant in a sunny spot, such as a south-facing window.Hardiness Zones: Echinocereus Engelmannii is hardy in USDA zones 8 to 10.
Common Pests & Diseases
Echinocereus Engelmannii is relatively pest and disease-resistant, but may be susceptible to mealybugs, spider mites, and scale insects. To prevent these pests, keep the plant clean and well-ventilated. If you notice any infestations, treat the plant with a mild insecticide or neem oil.
Habitat
Echinocereus Engelmannii is native to the southwestern United States and northern Mexico. It typically grows in rocky or sandy soils in desert regions, at elevations of up to 6,000 feet (1,800 m) above sea level.
Question and Answer
Q: How often should I water Echinocereus Engelmannii?
A: Water the plant sparingly, only when the soil is completely dry. Avoid overwatering, as this can lead to root rot.Q: What kind of soil does Echinocereus Engelmannii need?
A: Use a well-draining soil mix that is specifically formulated for cacti and succulents.Q: What is the hardiness zone for Echinocereus Engelmannii?
A: Echinocereus Engelmannii is hardy in USDA zones 8 to 10.Q: How tall does Echinocereus Engelmannii grow?
A: The plant typically grows up to 1 foot (30 cm) tall.
Related Plants
Here are some other cactus species that are related to Echinocereus Engelmannii:
- Echinocactus grusonii (golden barrel cactus)
- Ferocactus pilosus (Mexican lime cactus)
- Mammillaria elongata (ladyfinger cactus)
- Opuntia ficus-indica (Indian fig cactus)
References
- Encyclopedia of Life. (n.d.). Echinocereus engelmannii. Retrieved from https://eol.org/pages/5824859
- Succulent Guide. (n.d.). Echinocereus engelmannii (Engelmann’s Hedgehog Cactus). Retrieved from https://www.succulents.net/cactus/echinocereus-engelmannii-engelmanns-hedgehog-cactus/
- USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service. (n.d.). Echinocereus engelmannii. Retrieved from https://plants.usda.gov/core/profile?symbol=ECEN5
