Pitaya

(Echinocereus enneacanthus)

Pitaya (Echinocereus enneacanthus)

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Estimated Native Range
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Summary

Echinocereus enneacanthus, commonly known as Pitaya or Strawberry Cactus, is an evergreen succulent native to the Chihuahuan Desert and other arid regions in Texas and Northeast Mexico. It typically grows to a height of 1-3 feet (0.3-0.9 meters) and a width of 0.6-0.8 feet (0.2-0.2 meters). This cactus has a cylindrical form with ribbed, spiny stems that can produce clusters, giving it a shrubby appearance. The flowers are quite showy, blooming in a variety of colors including purple, red, pink, and yellow, mainly in the spring and early summer. After flowering, it may produce edible fruits that are favored in local cuisines.

The Pitaya is valued for its drought tolerance and striking flowers, making it a suitable choice for rock gardens, xeriscaping, and as a container plant for patios or indoor settings. It thrives in full sun and requires minimal watering, adapting well to soils with excellent drainage. While it is low-maintenance, it is susceptible to root rot if overwatered. Gardeners should be cautious of its spines when handling. It is not known to be invasive but should be monitored to prevent unwanted spread in non-native areas.CC BY-SA 4.0

Plant Description

  • Plant Type: Succulent
  • Height: 1-3 feet
  • Width: 0.6-0.8 feet
  • Growth Rate: Slow
  • Flower Color: Pink, Purple, Red, Yellow
  • Flowering Season: Spring, Summer
  • Leaf Retention: Evergreen

Growth Requirements

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

Common Uses

Bee Garden, Bird Garden, Drought Tolerant, Edible*Disclaimer: Easyscape's listed plant edibility is for informational use. Always verify the safety and proper identification of any plant before consumption., Fire Resistant, Hummingbird Garden, Low Maintenance, Rock Garden, Showy Flowers, Street Planting

Natural Habitat

Native to the Chihuahuan Desert and other arid regions in Texas and Northeast Mexico

Other Names

Common Names: Banana Cactus , Prostrate Hedgehog Cactus , Purple Pitaya , Cob Cactus , Strawberry Cactus , Strawberry Hedgehog Cactus , Órgano-Pequeño Alicoche Real , Alicoche , Tuvad Kägelkaktus , Smallspine Pitaya

Scientific Names: Echinocereus enneacanthus , Echinocereus enneacanthus var. enneacanthus , Echinocereus carnosus , Echinocereus enneacanthus var. carnosus , Echinocereus uehri

GBIF Accepted Name: Echinocereus enneacanthus Engelm.