Native Hedgehog

Plant Type: Cacti
Plant Height: 6-12 inches
Spread: 6-12 inches
Flower Color: bright pink to magenta
Sun Exposure: Full Sun, Partial Shade

Native Hedgehog Cactus (Echinocereus engelmannii) – A Vibrant Addition to Arizona Desert Gardens

The Native Hedgehog Cactus, scientifically known as Echinocereus engelmannii, is a charming and resilient cactus native to the desert regions of the southwestern United States and northern Mexico. Known for its compact size and vibrant flowers, this cactus adds a touch of desert beauty to any landscape.

Key Features of the Native Hedgehog Cactus:

• Compact Growth: This cactus forms clusters of cylindrical stems that grow to 6 to 12 inches in height and width, making it an ideal choice for small spaces and rock gardens.
• Spiny Stems: The stems are covered with spines that range in color from white to gray or tan, giving the cactus a hedgehog-like appearance, hence its name.

Stunning Flowers for Arizona Gardens

One of the standout features of Echinocereus engelmannii is its showy, funnel-shaped flowers. These blooms range from bright pink to magenta, with some varieties displaying red or orange flowers. The cactus produces these vibrant flowers in the spring, creating a spectacular floral display that covers the plant.

• Full Sun: The Native Hedgehog Cactus thrives in full sun, though it can tolerate partial shade in extremely hot climates.
• Drought-Tolerant: Like many desert plants, this cactus is highly drought-tolerant, making it perfect for xeriscaping and low-water garden designs. It requires minimal watering and thrives in well-drained soil.

Why Choose Native Hedgehog Cactus for Your Arizona Garden?

• Low Maintenance: Perfect for xeriscaping and desert landscapes, the Native Hedgehog Cactus is a low-maintenance plant that requires minimal watering and care.
• Spectacular Spring Blooms: The cactus produces abundant, colorful flowers in the spring, creating a dramatic floral display that attracts pollinators and adds a burst of color to the garden.
• Compact Size: Its compact growth makes it a great choice for small garden spaces, rock gardens, and containers.

Growth and Care

The Native Hedgehog Cactus is easy to care for and thrives in full sun and well-draining soil. Water sparingly, as the cactus is adapted to survive long periods of drought. It is an excellent addition to xeriscaping and desert landscapes, requiring little maintenance once established.

Planting & Care Tips

• Sunlight: Ensure full sun exposure to promote vibrant growth and flowering.
• Watering: Water sparingly, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings to avoid overwatering.
• Soil: Use a well-draining cactus mix for optimal growth.

The Native Hedgehog Cactus (Echinocereus engelmannii) offers a delightful, low-maintenance solution for adding desert charm and colorful spring blooms to Arizona gardens. Its vibrant flowers, compact size, and drought tolerance make it an ideal choice for xeriscaping and low-water landscapes.

Three Timbers Installation Guide (Feel Free to Follow): Native Hedgehog

Planting Guide:

• Location: Full sun (at least 6 hours of direct sunlight for optimal growth)
• Soil: Well-drained, sandy or rocky soil (slightly acidic to neutral soil preferred)
• Spacing: Space plants 2-3 feet apart to allow for their compact, rounded growth form
• 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: Native Hedgehog is self-supporting and grows in a rounded form with spiny globular bodies

Watering Guide:

Watering After Planting:

• Initial Watering: Water thoroughly immediately after planting to saturate the root ball and surrounding soil
• Frequency: Water every 5-6 days for the first 2-3 weeks to help establish the root system
• Watering Amount: Provide 1.5-2 inches of water per session for deep watering

When is the Plant Established?

• Timeframe: Native Hedgehog 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 for deep watering
• Flow Rate: Use emitters with a flow rate of 1-2 gallons per hour
• Number of Emitters: 1 emitter per plant for even watering distribution
• Adjusting Frequency: In summer, increase watering frequency to every 10-14 days. In winter, reduce to every 4-6 weeks