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Englemanns Hedgehog

Echinocereus englemanii

In stock

1 gallon; 2-3 gallon; 5 gallon

Plant Care

Native region:

Local Native; Mojave Desert

Water needs:

Low

Exposure:

Mature size:

Growth rate:

Full Sun; Filtered Shade

6-12"x1-2’

Slow

Flower color:

Flower season:

Pruning:

Magenta-Pale Pink

Spring

None

Wildlife

Monarchs:

Nectar pollinators:

Yes

Nighttime pollinators:

Yes

Rabbit resistant:

Yes

Engelmann's Hedgehog Cactus is by far one of the most common hedgehog cactus in the Chihuahuan, Sonoran, and Mojave Deserts. Hedgehog Cactus has been used for food by southwestern United States indigenous peoples. The 4-12 in., cylindrical, ribbed stems of saints cactus or hedgehog cactus may occur singly or in small clusters. Curved spines may be red, yellow, white or gray. Large, tubular flowers, which open during the day and bloom for several consecutive days, range from bright magenta to pale pink. A fleshy, spiny, red fruit follows.

Growing Plants in the Desert — Important Information

The information presented here is, to the best of my knowledge, accurate and based on my research from reliable sources, observations I have made of plants growing in my, and other gardens I have visited, and observations of the plants in their native habitats. I would appreciate your feedback and experience to help me educate others!

Cacti: In my experience, cacti are much happier in the filtered shade here in the low desert of the Coachella Valley. Colors are more vibrant and they bloom more profusely, especially the non-native varieties. If you pay attention to how our native barrel and beavertail opuntia grow in the wild, it is frequently tucked in the rocks under creosote or another shrub.

Light Requirements: I have found that in our desert (Sonoran/Colorado) “full sun” plants can take and appreciate the late afternoon filtered sun, especially in the hot summer months.