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(Sclerocactus uncinatus)
Fishhook Cactus (Sclerocactus uncinatus)
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Photo by Easyscape
CC BY-SA 4.0
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Photo by Easyscape
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Copyright:
CC BY-SA 4.0
Copyright Notice:
http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0/ | CC BY-SA 4.0
Estimated Native Range
Summary
Sclerocactus uncinatus, commonly known as Fishhook Cactus, is a deciduous succulent plant native to arid environments such as desert slopes, ridges, and rocky outcrops in the Southwestern USA and Northeastern Mexico. It typically grows to a height of 0.4-0.7 feet (0.1-0.2 meters) and a width of 0.5-0.9 feet (0.2-0.3 meters). This cactus is characterized by its cylindrical shape and the presence of curved spines resembling fishhooks, which help protect it from herbivores. The Fishhook Cactus blooms in the spring, producing showy orange and red flowers that attract pollinators such as bees and hummingbirds.
The Fishhook Cactus is valued for its drought tolerance and unique appearance, making it a popular choice for rock gardens, xeriscaping, and as a potted specimen in areas with dry climates. It requires minimal maintenance and thrives in full sun with low to very low water needs. The plant prefers well-draining soils, typically sandy or gravelly substrates, to prevent root rot. While it is generally disease-resistant, overwatering can lead to problems such as fungal infections. It is important to note that Sclerocactus uncinatus is not frost-tolerant and should be protected from freezing temperatures.CC BY-SA 4.0
The Fishhook Cactus is valued for its drought tolerance and unique appearance, making it a popular choice for rock gardens, xeriscaping, and as a potted specimen in areas with dry climates. It requires minimal maintenance and thrives in full sun with low to very low water needs. The plant prefers well-draining soils, typically sandy or gravelly substrates, to prevent root rot. While it is generally disease-resistant, overwatering can lead to problems such as fungal infections. It is important to note that Sclerocactus uncinatus is not frost-tolerant and should be protected from freezing temperatures.CC BY-SA 4.0
Plant Description
- Plant Type: Succulent
- Height: 0.4-0.7 feet
- Width: 0.5-0.9 feet
- Growth Rate: Slow
- Flower Color: Orange, Red
- Flowering Season: Spring
- Leaf Retention: Evergreen
Growth Requirements
- Sun: Full Sun
- Water: Low, Very Low
- Drainage: Fast
Common Uses
Drought Tolerant, Low Maintenance
Natural Habitat
Desert slopes, ridges, and rocky outcrops in the Southwestern USA and Northeastern Mexico
Other Names
Common Names: Little Barrels, Texas Hedgehog, Catclaw Cactus, Turk-Head Cactus, Brown-Flower Hedgehog, Biznaga-Bola Uncinada, Chihuahuan Fishhook Cactus
Scientific Names: , Sclerocactus uncinatus, Glandulicactus uncinatus subsp. uncinatus, Echinocactus uncinatus, Hamatocactus uncinatus,
GBIF Accepted Name: Sclerocactus uncinatus (Galeotti) N.P.Taylor