Hedgehog Cactus
coryphantha cornifera
Also known as: ["Hedgehog Cactus","Bunny Ears Cactus"]
Overview
A small, globular cactus with prominent tubercles and spines, native to arid regions.
Benefits & Perks
["drought tolerant","low maintenance","rare/collector’s item","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Caryophyllales |
| Family: | Cactaceae |
| Genus: | Coryphantha |
| Botanical Name: | Coryphantha cornifera |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Succulents & Cacti
- Suitable Location: indoor pot in bright, sunny location or outdoor rock garden
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–35°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"9–11"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- 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 tissue is present.
- Pruning Intensity: Light pruning; focus on removing 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 hours; place indoors near a south-facing window or in a greenhouse for optimal light.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easymoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant weekly for even light exposure; use sheer curtains to filter harsh sunlight; avoid direct midday sun in summer.
Watering
every 7–10 days during growing season, reduce to monthly in winter
Water deeply but infrequently; ensure excellent drainage; avoid waterlogged soil.
Soil
well-draining, sandy cactus mix
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Use pots with drainage holes; avoid heavy garden soil; ensure soil dries between waterings.
Temperature
Warm temperatures (65–85°F / 18–29°C) during active growth; tolerate mild frost but prefer above 50°F (10°C) in winter.
Avoid sudden temperature fluctuations; protect from frost; ensure good air circulation in hot weather.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during active growth with diluted cactus fertilizer
Fertilize only during active growth; water before applying fertilizer; use a balanced cactus-specific formula.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or offsets;Offsets are the most reliable method.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Select a healthy offset or cutting.
- Let it callus for a few days.
- Plant in well-draining medium.
- Water sparingly until roots form.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm (70–80°F / 21–27°C), bright indirect light, and high humidity (50–60%) for initial rooting.
Medium
Well-draining cactus mix or perlite and sand mixture.
Hormone
Optional, but rooting hormone can speed up the process.
Timeline
Offsets may root in 2–4 weeks; cuttings may take 4–8 weeks to root and several months to establish.
Tools Needed
Clean knife or scissors, rooting hormone (optional), well-draining medium, small pots.
Quick Tips
Use gloves to handle offsets; ensure the callusing period is complete; avoid overwatering during rooting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Use clean, sharp tools to cut away affected areas; avoid removing healthy growth.
Pruning Plan
Minimal pruning; remove dead or damaged parts to maintain health and aesthetics.
Tools
Sterilized pruning shears or a sharp knife.
Checklist
Inspect for dead/damaged parts; sterilize tools; cut cleanly; dispose of removed material.
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 the new pot has drainage holes.
Method
Remove the plant carefully; trim any dead roots; repot in a slightly larger container with fresh cactus mix; ensure good drainage.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when the plant outgrows its container; necessary to refresh soil and improve drainage.
Checklist
Check root health; trim if necessary; use fresh soil; ensure proper drainage; avoid over-potting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil dryness; water deeply; ensure drainage; adjust seasonally.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the soil level, avoiding the plant's body; ensure water penetrates the root zone; allow excess water to drain freely; water in the morning to reduce evaporation.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water sparingly during spring and summer, allowing soil to dry completely between waterings; reduce or cease watering in fall and winter to mimic 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
Wilting, yellowing, or shriveling in cold; scorching or sunburn in excessive heat.
Cold Stress
Slows growth; may cause root rot if soil remains wet; can lead to tissue damage below 40°F (4°C).
Solution: Move to a warmer location; ensure soil is dry; provide frost protection if temperatures drop below 40°F (4°C).
Hot Stress
Causes dehydration, sunburn, or etiolation if not enough light; may lead to root damage if soil overheats.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity; ensure soil does not dry out completely.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check growth phase; dilute fertilizer; apply to moist soil; avoid winter feeding.
Fertilizing Method
Use a low-nitrogen cactus fertilizer diluted to half strength; fertilize once in spring and once in summer; avoid fertilizing in fall and winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicCoryphantha cornifera is not considered toxic to cats. There are no known adverse effects from ingestion of this species in felines.
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Non-toxicCoryphantha cornifera is not considered toxic to dogs. There are no known adverse effects from ingestion of this species in canines.
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Non-toxicCoryphantha cornifera is generally considered non-toxic to humans. There are no known toxic compounds or physiological effects associated with ingestion of this species.
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How often should I water Coryphantha cornifera?
A: Water sparingly, only when the soil is completely dry, typically once 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: Is Coryphantha cornifera toxic to pets?
A: No, it is non-toxic to dogs and cats.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Cactaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during growi |
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