Claret Cup Cactus, Mound Cactus
echinocereus triglochidiatus
Also known as: ["Claret Cup Hedgehog Cactus","Mound Cactus"]
Overview
A low-growing, mound-forming cactus native to the southwestern United States and Mexico, known for its showy red flowers.
Benefits & Perks
["drought tolerant","deer resistant","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","low maintenance","rare/collector’s item"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Caryophyllales |
| Family: | Cactaceae |
| Genus: | Echinocereus |
| Botanical Name: | Echinocereus triglochidiatus |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Succulents & Cacti
- Suitable Location: rock gardens, xeriscapes, or outdoor containers in arid regions
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"–18–38°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"4–8"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining
- Soil Type: Well-draining cactus or succulent mix with added perlite or coarse sand.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: very low
- Toughness Level: high
- Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically annually or when dead stems are present.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate; remove only dead, damaged, or overgrown parts.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun (6–8 hours/day) in spring/summer; partial shade in intense summer heat; bright indirect light in winter if indoors.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to intense sunlight; protect from harsh midday sun to avoid scorching; move indoors or provide shade during extreme heat.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easyEasy
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant for even light exposure; avoid sudden light changes; use sheer curtains in summer to diffuse intense light.
Watering
every 2–3 weeks, allowing soil to dry completely between waterings
Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure soil dries completely between waterings; avoid overhead watering to prevent rot.
Soil
well-draining, sandy or rocky soil with minimal organic matter
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (6.0–7.0).
Use gritty amendments; avoid heavy garden soil; ensure pots have drainage holes.
Temperature
Ideal range 50–90°F (10–32°C); tolerates brief freezes but prefers mild winters; thrives in warm, dry conditions.
Avoid sudden temperature swings; protect from frost; ensure good air flow in hot weather.
Fertilizing
every 3–4 months during active growth with a balanced cactus fertilizer
Fertilize only when actively growing; never fertilize dry soil; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or offsets; division of clumps is also effective.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Cut or separate offsets.
- Let cuttings callous for a few days.
- Plant in dry medium.
- Water lightly after roots form.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm (70–80°F), humid (50–60%), bright indirect light with good air circulation.
Medium
Well-draining mix of cactus soil and perlite or sand.
Hormone
Optional, but rooting hormone can speed up root development.
Timeline
Roots may form in 2–4 weeks; establish in new pot within 2–3 months.
Tools Needed
Clean knife or shears, rooting hormone (optional), small pots, well-draining soil mix.
Quick Tips
Use sterile tools; avoid overwatering; provide bottom heat if possible.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Cut stems cleanly with sharp tools; allow cuts to callous before potential rain or high humidity.
Pruning Plan
Minimal pruning needed; remove dead or damaged stems to maintain health and appearance.
Tools
Clean, sharp pruning shears or a sharp knife.
Checklist
Sanitize tools; cut cleanly; allow cuts to dry; dispose of removed parts properly.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before the active growing season begins.
Pot Size
One size larger pot (e.g., +2–3 cm in diameter); ensure good drainage.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if necessary; place in a slightly larger pot with fresh, well-draining soil; water lightly after repotting.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; beneficial for growth and soil refresh.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot size; use fresh soil mix; ensure drainage; water lightly after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil dryness; water deeply; ensure drainage; adjust frequency by season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the root zone until water drains from the bottom; ensure excess water drains away; water in the morning to allow foliage to dry.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply during active growth (spring/summer) every 7–14 days, depending on weather and soil dryness; reduce or stop watering in winter dormancy.
Soil Improvement
Add coarse sand, perlite, or pumice to commercial potting mix; ensure soil is loose and airy.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Chlorosis or purpling in cold; wilting or sunburn spots in excessive heat; stunted growth in temperature stress.
Cold Stress
Slows growth; may cause root rot if soil remains wet in cold; can suffer tissue damage below 20°F (-6°C).
Solution: Ensure well-drained soil; protect from frost with frost cloth; move indoors or to a sheltered location in freezing temperatures.
Hot Stress
Can lead to sunburn, dehydration, or etiolation if not acclimated; may drop spines or show signs of heat exhaustion.
Solution: Provide afternoon shade; increase air circulation; water deeply but infrequently; mist sparingly if needed.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use diluted fertilizer; apply during growing season; avoid winter feeding; flush soil periodically.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, low-nitrogen cactus fertilizer diluted to half strength; apply monthly during growing season (spring/summer); avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicThe spines of Echinocereus triglochidiatus may cause mechanical injury to cats if they come into contact with them, but the plant is not known to contain toxic substances harmful to cats.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if touched
Dogs
Non-toxicThe spines of Echinocereus triglochidiatus may cause mechanical injury to dogs if they come into contact with them, but the plant is not known to contain toxic substances harmful to dogs.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if touched
Humans
Non-toxicThe spines of Echinocereus triglochidiatus can cause mechanical irritation upon contact, but there are no known toxic compounds that pose a significant health risk to humans.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if touched
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How often should I water Echinocereus triglochidiatus?
A: Water sparingly, only when the soil is completely dry, typically every 2-4 weeks depending on climate.
Q: Does this cactus need full sun?
A: Yes, it thrives in full sun to partial shade.
Q: Can I grow this cactus indoors?
A: It can be grown indoors but requires bright light and excellent drainage to mimic its natural habitat.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Cactaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 2–3 weeks, allowing so |
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