Hedgehog cactus

Hedgehog cactus Overview

The genus Echinocereus contains approximately 55 perennial species, characterised by their spherical to columnar, ribbed stems and tendency to branch with age. They originate from Mexico and the USA in rocky environments. Flowers last a long time, are produced from inside spiny stems, and lead on to pear-shaped seed pods. Some species are tuberous. Flowers may be vibrant pink, red, orange and yellow and this genus is often preferentially cultivated due to its ease of care. Some species are cold-hardy and may survive temperatures as low as -23ºC, as long as they are kept dry.