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More Genus
Hedgehog cactus (Echinocereus)
Hedgehog cactus are small-to-medium sized plants that are easier to cultivate in home conditions than many other cactus groups, with attractive blooming occurring in the spring if the plants are growing in optimal conditions. The "hedgehog" part of the common name "Hedgehog cacti" refers to the shape of its spiny fruits. 
Lifespan
Perennial
Plant Type
Succulent
Key Facts About Hedgehog cactus
Feedback
Attributes of Hedgehog cactus
Leaf type
Semi-evergreen
Ideal Temperature
20 - 41 ℃
Scientific Classification of Hedgehog cactus
Phylum
Vascular plants
Class
Dicotyledons
Order
Pinks, cacti, and allies
Family
Cactuses
Genus
Hedgehog cactus
Distribution of Hedgehog cactus
Feedback
Distribution Map of Hedgehog cactus
Native
Cultivated
Invasive
Potentially invasive
Exotic
No species reported
How to Grow and Care for Hedgehog cactus
Feedback
Hedgehog cactus, a hardy cactus genus, requires meticulous but not intricate care. It thrives in bright light and well-draining soil, needing only light watering and warm temperatures. Care challenges encompass root rot, pest infestation, and cold sensitivity. During winter, hedgehog cactus enters dormancy and requires less watering. Conversely, in growing seasons like spring and summer, it necessitates frequent watering and feeding for optimal growth. Understanding these basic needs, common challenges, and seasonal considerations can ensure healthy hedgehog cactus cultivation.
How to Water Hedgehog cactus?
What Are the Sunlight Requirements for Hedgehog cactus?
How to Propagate Hedgehog cactus?
How to Plant Hedgehog cactus?
Exploring the Hedgehog cactus Plants
Feedback
8 most common species：
Scarlet hedgehog cactus
Scarlet hedgehog cactus (*Echinocereus coccineus*) is a cactus native to Mexico and the southwestern United States. Scarlet hedgehog cactus grows naturally in arid climates in shaded locations. This species is prone to root rot during home cultivation if its soil is not kept completely dry between waterings.
Echinocereus subinermis
Echinocereus subinermis is a flowering cactus native to Mexico. Echinocereus subinermis is often cultivated as a houseplant, but requires warm, arid climates for optimal growth. In temperate climates, this species must be grown under glass or indoors to avoid low temperatures. When grown as a houseplant, the soil should be kept mostly dry to avoid root rot.
Rainbow cactus
Rainbow cactus (Echinocereus pectinatus) is a solitary cactus named for its flowers which range in color from white or yellow to lavender or magenta. Showy blooms appear from late spring to early summer and last a few days before falling off. It prefers sun to partial shade and needs well-drained sandy soil with no over watering.
Lace Hedgehog Cactus
Lace Hedgehog Cactus (Echinocereus reichenbachii) is a flowering perennial shrub native to Mexico and the southwestern United States. Lace Hedgehog Cactus grow well near rock outcroppings in dry, well-drained soil. This species is often cultivated for ornamental purposes.
Kingcup Cactus
The kingcup Cactus is one of several varieties of hedgehog cacti known for its orange-red to scarlet flowers that are shaped like cups, hence its common name. It is a day-flowering cactus, meaning when it is in bloom, its flowers reopen each morning and each blossom can last for two to three days.
Pitaya
Pitaya (Echinocereus enneacanthus) is also called green strawberry hedgehog cactus. It’s indigenous to western North America. Its greenish-brown fruits are very popular in Mexico and have a taste similar to strawberries. If you’re growing pitaya in a container, make sure that the pot has excellent drainage. Its root system is prone to rot.
Strawberry hedgehog cactus
Strawberry hedgehog cactus (Echinocereus engelmannii) is a cactus that will grow to 25 cm tall with ribbed stems that are covered in spikes. Large tubular reddish-pink flowers bloom between the spiked stems from spring to summer. Blossoms last for a few days opening during the day and closing at night. Red fleshy fruit with a spiny exterior appears in late summer ripening in fall.
Ladyfinger cactus
Ladyfinger cactus (*Echinocereus pentalophus*) is also known as Alice, Devil's Fingers, and Dog Tail. It needs bright sunlight, light fertilizer, and is prone to root rot. The root system is shallow and weak. Aphids and mealybugs are also a danger. Avoiding wet soil can help with success with a ladyfinger cactus.
All Species of Hedgehog cactus
Scarlet hedgehog cactus
Scarlet hedgehog cactus
Scarlet hedgehog cactus (*Echinocereus coccineus*) is a cactus native to Mexico and the southwestern United States. Scarlet hedgehog cactus grows naturally in arid climates in shaded locations. This species is prone to root rot during home cultivation if its soil is not kept completely dry between waterings.
Echinocereus subinermis
Echinocereus subinermis
Echinocereus subinermis is a flowering cactus native to Mexico. Echinocereus subinermis is often cultivated as a houseplant, but requires warm, arid climates for optimal growth. In temperate climates, this species must be grown under glass or indoors to avoid low temperatures. When grown as a houseplant, the soil should be kept mostly dry to avoid root rot.
Rainbow cactus
Rainbow cactus
Rainbow cactus (Echinocereus pectinatus) is a solitary cactus named for its flowers which range in color from white or yellow to lavender or magenta. Showy blooms appear from late spring to early summer and last a few days before falling off. It prefers sun to partial shade and needs well-drained sandy soil with no over watering.
Lace Hedgehog Cactus
Lace Hedgehog Cactus
Lace Hedgehog Cactus (Echinocereus reichenbachii) is a flowering perennial shrub native to Mexico and the southwestern United States. Lace Hedgehog Cactus grow well near rock outcroppings in dry, well-drained soil. This species is often cultivated for ornamental purposes.
Kingcup Cactus
Kingcup Cactus
The kingcup Cactus is one of several varieties of hedgehog cacti known for its orange-red to scarlet flowers that are shaped like cups, hence its common name. It is a day-flowering cactus, meaning when it is in bloom, its flowers reopen each morning and each blossom can last for two to three days.
Pitaya
Pitaya
Pitaya (Echinocereus enneacanthus) is also called green strawberry hedgehog cactus. It’s indigenous to western North America. Its greenish-brown fruits are very popular in Mexico and have a taste similar to strawberries. If you’re growing pitaya in a container, make sure that the pot has excellent drainage. Its root system is prone to rot.
Strawberry hedgehog cactus
Strawberry hedgehog cactus
Strawberry hedgehog cactus (Echinocereus engelmannii) is a cactus that will grow to 25 cm tall with ribbed stems that are covered in spikes. Large tubular reddish-pink flowers bloom between the spiked stems from spring to summer. Blossoms last for a few days opening during the day and closing at night. Red fleshy fruit with a spiny exterior appears in late summer ripening in fall.
Ladyfinger cactus
Ladyfinger cactus
Ladyfinger cactus (*Echinocereus pentalophus*) is also known as Alice, Devil's Fingers, and Dog Tail. It needs bright sunlight, light fertilizer, and is prone to root rot. The root system is shallow and weak. Aphids and mealybugs are also a danger. Avoiding wet soil can help with success with a ladyfinger cactus.
Texas rainbow cactus
Texas rainbow cactus
Texas rainbow cactus (Echinocereus dasyacanthus) is a single-stemmed cactus that will grow 15 to 20 cm tall. It features a colorful rainbow of spines and huge bright yellow flowers that bloom in spring. It requires full sun and well-drained soil. It attracts hummingbirds and bees and is deer and rabbit-resistant. Great for container plantings or in rock gardens.
Rainbow hedgehog cactus
Rainbow hedgehog cactus
The Echinocereus rigidissimus is commonly known as rainbow hedgehog cactus. It is native to areas in the United States and Mexico. The plant sometimes blooms during the summer. It is becoming less common because of the proliferation of cattle raising and vehicles in its habitat.
Strawberry hedgehog cactus
Strawberry hedgehog cactus
Strawberry hedgehog cactus (Echinocereus stramineus) is a cactus found in northern Mexico and the southwestern United States. It grows in small clumps of round lobes, giving rise to its common name. It is quite resilient against cold temperatures but cannot survive overwatering. The distinctive, almost porcupine-like spines can grow up to 8 cm long!
Nylon hedgehog cactus
Nylon hedgehog cactus
As a beacon of resilience, nylon hedgehog cactus endures harsh climates while adding aesthetic appeal to rock gardens. Its vibrant green flowers are a captivating treat, blooming even amidst snow during early spring. Notable for its cylindrical shape, nylon hedgehog cactus often pulls a camouflage act, making it a unique hide-and-seek partner. In outdoor garden settings, it could just be the surprise element you've been seeking!
Echinocereus mombergerianus
Echinocereus mombergerianus
Echinocereus mombergerianus is a striking cactus with a clustered growth pattern, featuring cylindrical stems that may be adorned with vibrant magenta flowers. Its spiny surface acts as a defense mechanism, while the blossoms attract pollinators. This species is adapted to arid conditions, storing water to thrive in its desert habitat.
Lloyd's hedgehog cactus
Lloyd's hedgehog cactus
Lloyd's hedgehog cactus is a resilient desert cactus, featuring a clustered, cylindrical form with prominent ribbing. It typically grows spiny ridges covered in vibrant blooms that range from magenta to red. The blossoms contrast starkly with its thorny silhouette, serving as a beacon for pollinators in its arid habitat. Adapted to scarce water, lloyd's hedgehog cactus thrives in intense sunlight and well-drained soils.
Nichol's hedgehog cactus
Nichol's hedgehog cactus
Nichol's hedgehog cactus is a hardy cactus found natively in desert regions, where resilience to arid conditions is paramount. It displays a cylindrical form with ribbed, green stems covered in clusters of spines that range from white to reddish-brown. The spines not only deter predators but also help shade its skin from the intense sun. In spring, bright magenta flowers crown nichol's hedgehog cactus, attracting pollinators and providing a stark contrast to its harsh habitat.
Mojave mound cactus
Mojave mound cactus
Mojave mound cactus is a robust cactus characterized by its sprawling clusters of cylindrical stems crowned with vibrant, large magenta flowers. Its spiny surface serves as a defense against herbivores and a shade provider to reduce water loss in arid environments. The plant thrives in rocky desert terrains, with its deep root system adeptly adapted to infrequent rainfall.
Echinocereus pensilis
Echinocereus pensilis
Echinocereus pensilis is a rare cactus with slender, pencil-like stems, typically clustering and sprawling as they grow. The stems are vivid green, often forming dense thickets. Its sparsely distributed spines provide minor shading and defense, while vibrant, funnel-shaped flowers bloom briefly under desert sun. The plant's streamlined form minimizes water loss, essential in its arid native habitats.
Pinkflower hedgehog cactus
Pinkflower hedgehog cactus
Pinkflower hedgehog cactus is a resilient desert cactus with a clumping habit, growing low to the ground. Its cylindrical stems are adorned with pronounced ribs and clusters of sharp spines that offer protection and reduce water loss. In spring, vibrant purple or pink funnel-shaped flowers bloom, providing a stark contrast to the arid landscapes it thrives in.
Pinkflower hedgehog cactus
Pinkflower hedgehog cactus
Pinkflower hedgehog cactus is a cactus with a clustered growth habit, sprouting numerous spiny stems from a single base. These cylindrical stems, which can reach up to 40 cm in height, are adorned with vibrant pink to purple flowers that bloom in the spring. Native to desert settings, pinkflower hedgehog cactus has evolved to store water within its fleshy stems, ensuring survival in arid climates. The plant's dense spines provide shade, reducing water loss and deterring herbivores.
Pinkflower hedgehog cactus
Pinkflower hedgehog cactus
Pinkflower hedgehog cactus is a striking cactus native to rocky terrains in the Southwestern United States. Characterized by its cylindrical, ribbed stem that can grow individually or in clusters, it stands out during spring with vibrant pink to purple flowers crowning its top. These blossoms are not just beautiful, they're also a survival strategy, attracting pollinators in an otherwise arid landscape. Stout spines provide both protection and shade, which helps to manage the intense desert sun and conserve moisture, ensuring pinkflower hedgehog cactus's resilience amidst harsh conditions.
Echinocereus viridiflorus subsp. chloranthus
Echinocereus viridiflorus subsp. chloranthus
Echinocereus viridiflorus subsp. chloranthus is a hardy cactus native to rocky and grassy areas of the Southern United States. It boasts a compact, cylindrical form with small, vibrant green stems. The distinctive feature of echinocereus viridiflorus subsp. chloranthus is its bright green, pineapple-scented flowers, which contrast dramatically against the spiny stem. This subspecies has adapted to survive in harsh desert climates, conserving water and flowering in synchronization with infrequent desert rains.
Brownspine hedgehog cactus
Brownspine hedgehog cactus
Brownspine hedgehog cactus is a small, spiny cactus with vibrant, ruby-red blooms. Its compact, cylindrical stems cluster close to the ground, a form adapted to its arid desert habitat for conserving moisture. The plant's showy flowers emerge in spring, providing stark contrast to its green to brownish body, and attract pollinators despite the harsh conditions.
More Popular Genus
Feedback
Dracaena
Dracaena are popular house plants that are easy to grow. They can tolerate low-light conditions and require little watering. Their leaves range from variegated to dark green. Their characteristic traits include woody stems that grow slowly but offer a striking appearance for small spaces such as apartments or offices.
Fig trees
Fig trees have been cultivated in many regions for their fruits, particularly the common fig, F. carica. Most of the species have edible fruits, although the common fig is the only one of commercial value. Fig trees are also important food sources for wildlife in the tropics, including monkeys, bats, and insects.
Brambles
Brambles are members of the rose family, and there are hundreds of different types to be found throughout the European countryside. They have been culturally significant for centuries; Christian folklore stories hold that when the devil was thrown from heaven, he landed on a bramble bush. Their vigorous growth habit can tangle into native plants and take over.
Maples
The popular tree family known as maples change the color of their leaves in the fall. Many cultural traditions encourage people to watch the colors change, such as momijigari in Japan. Maples popular options for bonsai art. Alternately, their sap is used to create maple syrup.
Prunus
Prunus is a genus of flowering fruit trees that includes almonds, cherries, plums, peaches, nectarines, and apricots. These are often known as "stone fruits" because their pits are large seeds or "stones." When prunus trees are damaged, they exhibit "gummosis," a condition in which the tree's gum (similar to sap) is secreted to the bark to help heal external wounds.
Nightshades
Nightshades is a large and diverse genus of plants, with more than 1500 different types worldwide. This genus incorporates both important staple food crops like tomato, potato, and eggplant, but also dangerous poisonous plants from the nightshade family. The name was coined by Pliny the Elder almost two thousand years ago.
Roses
Most species of roses are shrubs or climbing plants that have showy flowers and sharp thorns. They are commonly cultivated for cut flowers or as ornamental plants in gardens due to their attractive appearance, pleasant fragrance, and cultural significance in many countries. The rose hips (fruits) can also be used in jams and teas.
Oaks
Oaks are among the world's longest-lived trees, sometimes growing for over 1,000 years! The oldest known oak tree is in the southern United States and is over 1,500 years old. Oaks produce an exceedingly popular type of wood which is used to make different products, from furniture and flooring to wine barrels and even cosmetic creams.
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About
Key Facts
Distribution
How To Care
All Species
More Genus
Hedgehog cactus
Echinocereus
Hedgehog cactus are small-to-medium sized plants that are easier to cultivate in home conditions than many other cactus groups, with attractive blooming occurring in the spring if the plants are growing in optimal conditions. The "hedgehog" part of the common name "Hedgehog cacti" refers to the shape of its spiny fruits.
Lifespan
Perennial
Plant Type
Succulent
Key Facts About Hedgehog cactus
Feedback
Attributes of Hedgehog cactus
Leaf type
Semi-evergreen
Ideal Temperature
20 - 41 ℃
Scientific Classification of Hedgehog cactus
Phylum
Vascular plants Class
Dicotyledons Order
Pinks, cacti, and allies Family
Cactuses Genus
Hedgehog cactus Distribution of Hedgehog cactus
Feedback
Distribution Map of Hedgehog cactus
Native
Cultivated
Invasive
Potentially invasive
Exotic
No species reported
How to Grow and Care for Hedgehog cactus
Feedback
Hedgehog cactus, a hardy cactus genus, requires meticulous but not intricate care. It thrives in bright light and well-draining soil, needing only light watering and warm temperatures. Care challenges encompass root rot, pest infestation, and cold sensitivity. During winter, hedgehog cactus enters dormancy and requires less watering. Conversely, in growing seasons like spring and summer, it necessitates frequent watering and feeding for optimal growth. Understanding these basic needs, common challenges, and seasonal considerations can ensure healthy hedgehog cactus cultivation.
How to Water Hedgehog cactus?
What Are the Sunlight Requirements for Hedgehog cactus?
How to Propagate Hedgehog cactus?
How to Plant Hedgehog cactus?
Exploring the Hedgehog cactus Plants
Feedback
8 most common species：
Scarlet hedgehog cactus
Scarlet hedgehog cactus (*Echinocereus coccineus*) is a cactus native to Mexico and the southwestern United States. Scarlet hedgehog cactus grows naturally in arid climates in shaded locations. This species is prone to root rot during home cultivation if its soil is not kept completely dry between waterings.
Echinocereus subinermis
Echinocereus subinermis is a flowering cactus native to Mexico. Echinocereus subinermis is often cultivated as a houseplant, but requires warm, arid climates for optimal growth. In temperate climates, this species must be grown under glass or indoors to avoid low temperatures. When grown as a houseplant, the soil should be kept mostly dry to avoid root rot.
Rainbow cactus
Rainbow cactus (Echinocereus pectinatus) is a solitary cactus named for its flowers which range in color from white or yellow to lavender or magenta. Showy blooms appear from late spring to early summer and last a few days before falling off. It prefers sun to partial shade and needs well-drained sandy soil with no over watering.
Lace Hedgehog Cactus
Lace Hedgehog Cactus (Echinocereus reichenbachii) is a flowering perennial shrub native to Mexico and the southwestern United States. Lace Hedgehog Cactus grow well near rock outcroppings in dry, well-drained soil. This species is often cultivated for ornamental purposes.
Show More Species
All Species of Hedgehog cactus
Scarlet hedgehog cactus
Echinocereus subinermis
Rainbow cactus
Lace Hedgehog Cactus
Kingcup Cactus
Pitaya
Strawberry hedgehog cactus
Ladyfinger cactus
Texas rainbow cactus
Rainbow hedgehog cactus
Strawberry hedgehog cactus
Nylon hedgehog cactus
Echinocereus mombergerianus
Lloyd's hedgehog cactus
Nichol's hedgehog cactus
Mojave mound cactus
Echinocereus pensilis
Pinkflower hedgehog cactus
Pinkflower hedgehog cactus
Pinkflower hedgehog cactus
Echinocereus viridiflorus subsp. chloranthus
Brownspine hedgehog cactus
More Popular Genus
Feedback
Dracaena
Dracaena are popular house plants that are easy to grow. They can tolerate low-light conditions and require little watering. Their leaves range from variegated to dark green. Their characteristic traits include woody stems that grow slowly but offer a striking appearance for small spaces such as apartments or offices.
Fig trees
Fig trees have been cultivated in many regions for their fruits, particularly the common fig, F. carica. Most of the species have edible fruits, although the common fig is the only one of commercial value. Fig trees are also important food sources for wildlife in the tropics, including monkeys, bats, and insects.
Brambles
Brambles are members of the rose family, and there are hundreds of different types to be found throughout the European countryside. They have been culturally significant for centuries; Christian folklore stories hold that when the devil was thrown from heaven, he landed on a bramble bush. Their vigorous growth habit can tangle into native plants and take over.
Maples
The popular tree family known as maples change the color of their leaves in the fall. Many cultural traditions encourage people to watch the colors change, such as momijigari in Japan. Maples popular options for bonsai art. Alternately, their sap is used to create maple syrup.
Prunus
Prunus is a genus of flowering fruit trees that includes almonds, cherries, plums, peaches, nectarines, and apricots. These are often known as "stone fruits" because their pits are large seeds or "stones." When prunus trees are damaged, they exhibit "gummosis," a condition in which the tree's gum (similar to sap) is secreted to the bark to help heal external wounds.
Nightshades
Nightshades is a large and diverse genus of plants, with more than 1500 different types worldwide. This genus incorporates both important staple food crops like tomato, potato, and eggplant, but also dangerous poisonous plants from the nightshade family. The name was coined by Pliny the Elder almost two thousand years ago.
Roses
Most species of roses are shrubs or climbing plants that have showy flowers and sharp thorns. They are commonly cultivated for cut flowers or as ornamental plants in gardens due to their attractive appearance, pleasant fragrance, and cultural significance in many countries. The rose hips (fruits) can also be used in jams and teas.
Oaks
Oaks are among the world's longest-lived trees, sometimes growing for over 1,000 years! The oldest known oak tree is in the southern United States and is over 1,500 years old. Oaks produce an exceedingly popular type of wood which is used to make different products, from furniture and flooring to wine barrels and even cosmetic creams.
Your Ultimate Guide to Plants
Identify grow and nurture the better way!
17,000 local species +400,000 global species studied
Nearly 5 years of research
80+ scholars in botany and gardening
Continue reading in our app - it's better
A database of 400000+ plants
unlimited guides at your fingertips...
unlimited guides at your fingertips...
