Scarlet Hedgehog Cactus

(Echinocereus coccineus)

Scarlet Hedgehog Cactus (Echinocereus coccineus)

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Estimated Native Range
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Summary

Echinocereus coccineus, commonly known as Scarlet Hedgehog Cactus, is an evergreen succulent native to arid regions, including desert scrub and rocky hillsides in the Southwestern United States and Northern and Central Mexico. It typically reaches heights of up to 60 cm (24 in) and forms clumps with cylindrical stems. The plant is adorned with vibrant, funnel-shaped flowers in shades of red, orange, or occasionally pink, which bloom from late spring to early summer and are quite showy, attracting pollinators such as hummingbirds. Following the flowering period, it produces red, fleshy, and edible fruits.

The Scarlet Hedgehog Cactus is valued for its drought tolerance and striking flowers, making it a popular choice for rock gardens, xeriscaping, and as a potted specimen in areas with limited water resources. It thrives in full sun exposure and requires sandy, well-drained soil. This cactus is hardy in USDA zones 8–11 and is relatively low-maintenance, needing minimal water once established. While it is generally pest-free, overwatering can lead to root rot. It is also important to protect it from extreme cold.CC BY-SA 4.0

Plant Description

  • Plant Type: Succulent
  • Height: 0.4-0.7 feet
  • Width: 1-1.5 feet
  • Growth Rate: Slow
  • Flower Color: Red
  • Flowering Season: Spring
  • Leaf Retention: Evergreen

Growth Requirements

  • Sun: Full Sun
  • Water: Low, Very Low
  • Drainage: Fast

Common Uses

Bee Garden, Bird Garden, Butterfly Garden, Drought Tolerant, Fire Resistant, Hummingbird Garden, Low Maintenance, Rock Garden, Showy Flowers, Street Planting

Natural Habitat

Native to arid regions, including desert scrub and rocky hillsides in the Southwestern United States and Northern and Central Mexico

Other Names

Common Names: California Hedgehog, Mexican Claret-Cup Cactus, Golden-Rainbow Hedgehog, Claret-Cup Cactus, Cream-Flower Hedgehog, Arizona Hedgehog, White-Spine Claret-Cup Cactus, Órgano-Pequeño De Espinas Escarlatas, Scharlakanskägelkaktus

Scientific Names: , Echinocereus coccineus, Echinocereus triglochidiatus var. melanacanthus, Echinocereus phoeniceus, Echinocereus coccineus var. inermis, Cereus coccineus var. cylindricus, Cereus coccineus var. melanacanthus, Echinocereus conoideus var. cristata, Echinocereus krausei, Echinocereus monacanthus

GBIF Accepted Name: Echinocereus coccineus (Engelm.) Engelm.