Eagle's Claw Cactus

The Eagle's Claw Cactus, scientifically known as Echinocactus horizonthalonius, is a distinctive and attractive cactus native to the desert regions of northern Mexico and the southwestern United States. It is known for its unique, ribbed body and prominent spines that resemble an eagle's claw, hence its name.

In cultivation, the Eagle's Claw Cactus typically grows to about 1 to 2 feet in height and spread. It features a rounded, slightly elongated body with pronounced vertical ribs. The spines are one of its most striking features – they are long, curved, and typically a reddish-brown color, which can be quite dramatic against the cactus's green body.

This cactus prefers full sun to partial shade and thrives in well-drained soil. It's well-suited for dry, arid climates and is an excellent choice for xeriscaping, rock gardens, and succulent gardens. Due to its spiny nature, it should be placed where it won't be a hazard to passersby.

The Eagle's Claw Cactus produces flowers that are pink to red, adding an extra layer of beauty to the plant. The blooms typically appear in the spring or early summer and can be quite showy.

In addition to its ornamental appeal, the Eagle's Claw Cactus is also valued for its ease of care. It is drought-tolerant and requires minimal watering, making it a great choice for gardeners seeking low-maintenance yet visually striking plants.

Overall, the Eagle's Claw Cactus is a unique and visually appealing cactus that adds interest and texture to any garden setting. Its dramatic spines, attractive flowers, and hardy nature make it a popular choice among cactus enthusiasts and gardeners looking to add a touch of the exotic to their landscapes.

Three Timbers Installation Guide (Feel Free to Follow): Eagle's Claw Cactus

Planting Guide:

• Location: Full sun (at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily for optimal growth)
• Soil: Well-drained, sandy or rocky soil (slightly acidic to neutral soil preferred)
• Spacing: Space plants 2-3 feet apart for optimal growth and to allow their spines to grow freely
• Planting Depth: Plant at the same depth as the root ball, ensuring the top of the root ball is level with the surrounding soil surface
• Support: Eagle's Claw Cactus does not require staking and grows in a compact, spherical shape with distinctive, curved spines

Watering Guide:

Watering After Planting:

• Initial Watering: Water thoroughly immediately after planting to saturate the root ball and surrounding soil
• Frequency: Water every 4-5 days for the first 2-3 weeks to help establish the root system
• Watering Amount: Provide 1-2 inches of water per session to ensure deep watering

When is the Plant Established?

• Timeframe: Eagle's Claw Cactus is considered established after 3-4 months when the roots have spread into the surrounding soil

Watering Once Established:

• Summer: Water every 14-21 days during the hotter months. If temperatures exceed 100°F, increase watering to every 10-14 days. Provide 2-3 inches of water per session.
• Winter: Water every 4-6 weeks during the cooler months, depending on rainfall.

Drip Irrigation Setup:

• Placement of Emitters: Place the drip emitters 12-18 inches away from the base of the cactus to ensure deep watering
• Flow Rate: Use emitters with a flow rate of 1-2 gallons per hour for deep watering
• Number of Emitters: 1 emitter per plant for even watering distribution
• Adjusting Frequency: In summer, increase watering to every 10-14 days. In winter, reduce watering to every 4-6 weeks