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Description
Echinocereus Pectinatus, also known as Rainbow Hedgehog Cactus, is a small and beautiful cactus that is native to the southwestern United States and northern Mexico. It is a slow-growing plant that can reach up to 6 inches in height and 12 inches in width. The cactus has ribbed stems that are covered in small spines, and beautiful pink, red, or purple flowers that bloom in the spring.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Caryophyllales |
| Family | Cactaceae |
| Genus | Echinocereus |
Appearance
Echinocereus Pectinatus is a beautiful and unique cactus that is sure to stand out in any garden. The cactus has ribbed stems that are covered in small spines, and beautiful pink, red, or purple flowers that bloom in the spring. The flowers are large and showy, and can be up to 3 inches in diameter. The cactus itself can reach up to 6 inches in height and 12 inches in width. It is a slow-growing plant, but with proper care, it can live for many years.
Care Guide
Echinocereus Pectinatus is a very easy plant to care for. Here are some tips:
- Water: Water the cactus sparingly, only when the soil is completely dry. Overwatering can lead to root rot.
- Fertilization: Fertilize the cactus once a month during the growing season with a fertilizer formulated for cacti and succulents.
- Soil: Plant the cactus in a well-draining soil mix specifically formulated for cacti and succulents.
- Sunlight: Echinocereus Pectinatus prefers full sunlight, but can also tolerate partial shade.
- Hardiness Zones: Echinocereus Pectinatus can grow in USDA hardiness zones 9-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Echinocereus Pectinatus is generally a very hardy plant, but it can be susceptible to a few pests and diseases:
- Spider Mites: These tiny pests can cause damage to the cactus by sucking out the sap. Use an insecticidal soap to get rid of them.
- Mealybugs: These pests look like small balls of cotton and can cause damage to the cactus by sucking out the sap. Use an insecticidal soap to get rid of them.
- Root Rot: Overwatering can lead to root rot, which can be fatal to the cactus. Make sure to only water the cactus when the soil is completely dry.
Habitat
Echinocereus Pectinatus is native to the southwestern United States and northern Mexico. It grows in rocky and sandy soils in desert and semi-desert areas. It can tolerate extreme temperatures and drought conditions, making it a very hardy plant.
Question and Answer
Q: How often should I water my Echinocereus Pectinatus?
A: Water your cactus sparingly, only when the soil is completely dry. Overwatering can lead to root rot.
Q: What kind of soil should I use for my Echinocereus Pectinatus?
A: Use a well-draining soil mix specifically formulated for cacti and succulents.
Q: What kind of fertilizer should I use for my Echinocereus Pectinatus?
A: Use a fertilizer formulated for cacti and succulents, and fertilize the cactus once a month during the growing season.
Q: How can I get rid of spider mites on my Echinocereus Pectinatus?
A: Use an insecticidal soap to get rid of spider mites.
Related Plants
- Echinocereus rigidissimus
- Echinocereus engelmannii
- Echinocereus dasyacanthus
- Echinocereus viridiflorus
References
- “Echinocereus Pectinatus.” World of Succulents, https://worldofsucculents.com/echinocereus-pectinatus-rainbow-hedgehog-cactus/. Accessed 22 Aug. 2021.
- “Echinocereus Pectinatus.” Plants of the World Online, http://www.plantsoftheworldonline.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:132545-2. Accessed 22 Aug. 2021.
- “Rainbow Hedgehog Cactus.” Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum, https://www.desertmuseum.org/kids/oz/long-fact-sheets/Rainbow%20Hedgehog%20Cactus.php. Accessed 22 Aug. 2021.
