Just like the hedgehog it self, the hedgehog cactus (Echinocereus engelmannii) is covered in spiky “quills.” Along with its spines, a clump of the plant that is prickly provides the impact of an oversized hedgehog. Hedgehog cacti need full sunlight to prosper and could be developed in Sunset Climate Zones 2, 3, 7 1nd 10 through 2-4. Just like the majority of species that is cacti, it’s essential to take care of the cactus carefully to prevent getting pricked by its several spines. The cactus is is among the the cactus types that functions vibrant-coloured flowers.
Shape and Dimensions
Hedgehog cacti are cylindrical, or barrel-formed, to look at and will grow to about 20-inches tall, although most types attain heights of 6 to 8″. The plant does occur in clumps that may be 3 feet wide and up to 2-feet tall, in accordance with the online plant database of Sunset. Stems are usually singular, as well as the flowers attain widths of approximately 3″ and heights of approximately 2″. Fruit size is 3/4 inches in width. and about 1-inch long Each cactus functions spines that arise from the heart of the plant. Spines are about 2 to 3″ long and are brown.
Flowers
The flowers of the cactus are usually a deep-red, reddish-violet, fuchsia or pink hue depending on the species. Flowers are cup-like to look at and bloom from April until June. By remaining open through the night, the number of cactus functions flowers that distinguish themselves.
Exterior Features
Other features of the cactus contain the method by which the plant protects itself. Its primary type of defense are the spines that protect the entirety of the plant and offer the cactus from the warmth of the desert sun. This shade contributes towards maintaining the stem of the plant for an ideal temperature. Along with the spines the cactus is coated in a material that decreases the water reduction of the plant. The wax is most heavy . Hedgehog cacti also open their stomata, or pores, in the cooler night hours to execute an oxygen and carbon-dioxide “trade.”
Growing Problems & Ideas
Hedgehog cacti do best-in soil that is rocky, and so are commonly present in desert grasslands, shrublands and mountain deserts along with tree groves, like the ones of juniper or the aspen. The plant can increase in elevations ranging from 3 900 toes. It’s usually discovered within or against numerous rock formations. Start hedgehog cacti possibly from stem cuttings, or from seed in the spring or summer. Do s O in the summer if planting with cuttings. If developing them in full-sun throughout the first-year of developing provide your some or hedgehog cacti. This avoids any sun-burn on the plant. Develop it in a region, including beneath a tree or shrub in case your cacti doesn’t function an abundance of spines.