Viereck's Hedgehog Cactus
echinocereus viereckii
Also known as: ["Viereck's Echinocereus","Spiny Hedgehog Cactus"]
Overview
A small, spiny cactus native to Mexico and the southwestern United States, known for its vibrant magenta flowers.
Benefits & Perks
["drought tolerant","low maintenance","fragrant flowers","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Caryophyllales |
| Family: | Cactaceae |
| Genus: | Echinocereus |
| Botanical Name: | Echinocereus viereckii |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Succulents & Cacti
- Suitable Location: rock garden or outdoor pot in sunny, well-drained area
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–40°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"8–11"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent root rot.
- Soil Type: Well-draining cactus mix with added perlite or coarse sand.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: low
- Toughness Level: high
- Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically annually or when dead growth is present.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate; remove only dead or diseased parts.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light or full sun (4–6 hours/day); adjust to avoid scorching in intense summer sun.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to intense light; provide shade during peak summer heat; place indoors near south-facing window or outdoors in dappled sunlight.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderateeasy
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant weekly for even growth; avoid direct midday sun in summer; provide winter light supplementation if indoors.
Watering
every 7–10 days during growing season, reduce to monthly in winter
Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure soil dries fully between waterings; avoid overhead watering to prevent rot.
Soil
well-draining, sandy or rocky cactus mix
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (6.0–7.0).
Ensure pots have drainage holes; avoid waterlogged soil; use gritty amendments.
Temperature
Ideal range 70–85°F (21–29°C); tolerates mild frost but prefers warm, dry conditions; reduce watering in cooler temperatures.
Protect from frost; avoid sudden temperature swings; adjust watering with temperature changes.
Fertilizing
every 2–3 months during growing season with balanced cactus fertilizer
Fertilize only when actively growing; dilute fertilizer to prevent salt buildup; flush soil occasionally to remove excess salts.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or offsets; cuttings root easily under proper conditions.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Cut healthy stem/offset.
- Let callus form (1–3 days).
- Plant in medium.
- Water sparingly until roots form.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm, humid (50–60% RH), bright indirect light; protect from direct sun.
Medium
Well-draining mix of cactus soil and perlite or sand.
Hormone
Optional but recommended for faster rooting.
Timeline
Roots develop in 2–4 weeks; establish in new pot within 2–3 months.
Tools Needed
Sharp knife, rooting hormone, pot, well-draining soil mix.
Quick Tips
Use sterile tools; avoid overwatering; provide bottom heat for faster rooting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Cut stems cleanly with a sharp tool; allow cuts to callus before handling.
Pruning Plan
Minimal pruning; remove dead or damaged stems to maintain health and shape.
Tools
Sterile knife or pruning shears.
Checklist
Sanitize tools; cut cleanly; allow callusing; dispose of pruned material.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before active growth begins.
Pot Size
One size larger pot; ensure good drainage holes.
Method
Remove plant carefully; trim roots if necessary; repot in fresh, well-draining soil; avoid watering for a week.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill container; necessary to refresh soil and provide space.
Checklist
Check root health; use fresh soil; ensure drainage; avoid immediate watering.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil dryness; water deeply; ensure drainage; adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the root zone until water drains from the bottom; ensure excess water drains away; water early in the morning to minimize evaporation and fungal risk.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply during active growing season (spring/summer), allowing soil to dry completely between waterings; reduce or cease watering in winter dormancy.
Soil Improvement
Add coarse sand, perlite, or pumice to commercial cactus mix; avoid heavy organic matter.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Chlorosis, stunted growth, or softening of tissues in cold; wilting, sunburn, or scorching in excessive heat.
Cold Stress
Low temperatures slow metabolism and increase susceptibility to rot, especially if soil remains moist.
Solution: Move to a warmer location; ensure soil is dry; provide frost protection if outdoors; reduce watering.
Hot Stress
Excessive heat can cause dehydration, sunburn, or etiolation if not acclimated to intense light.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase air circulation; water cautiously if soil is dry; mist sparingly if needed.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check growth phase; dilute fertilizer; apply to moist soil; avoid winter feeding.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, water-soluble cactus fertilizer diluted to half strength; fertilize monthly during growing season (spring/summer); avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicThe spines of Echinocereus viereckii may cause physical injury if ingested, but the plant lacks toxic compounds that are harmful to cats.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Non-toxicWhile ingestion of the spines may cause mechanical injury, the plant itself does not contain toxic compounds harmful to dogs.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Non-toxicThe spines of Echinocereus viereckii 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 viereckii?
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 but can tolerate partial shade.
Q: Are the flowers edible?
A: The flowers are not typically consumed, but the fruits are edible and often used in jams.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Cactaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during growi |
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