Calling all green thumbs! Are you tired of the same old cactus plants in your collection? Looking for something unique that will make your neighbors envious? Introducing the vibrant rainbow hedgehog cactus, known as Echinocereus rigidissimus rubispinus. This stunning columnar cactus is a variety of the Echinocereus rigidissimus (rainbow cactus), distinguished by short, dusty red-purple spines and dull purple-red stigma lobes.
Native to the southwestern United States and northern Mexico, this rainbow hedgehog cactus plant has several other common names, such as Echinocereus pectinatus rubispinus, ruby rainbow, Arizona rainbow cactus, and rainbow cactus. This rainbow hedgehog cactus is a small to medium-sized columnar cactus that typically grows up to 10 inches tall and 8 inches wide.
The term "rubispinus" in the scientific name Echinocereus rigidissimus rubispinus refers to the ruby-reddish spines of the cactus. "Rubis" is derived from the Latin word for "red," while "spinus" refers to spines. The spines are long and rigid, providing protection against predators and helping to reduce water loss through evaporation. The body of the rainbow hedgehog cactus itself is cylindrical and covered in a waxy coating, giving it a unique texture and appearance.
The flowers of the rainbow hedgehog cactus produce stunning trumpet-shaped blooms in shades of bright pink at the top of the cactus during the late spring and summer months. They are usually about 2–3 inches in diameter and attract pollinators such as bees and butterflies.
You can propagate the rainbow hedgehog cactus by either offsets or seeds. To take an offset, carefully remove some roots while keeping others attached. Allow them to dry in the open air until a callus forms on the cut end. Then, plant in cactus potting soil in a bright, warm location.
Rainbow hedgehog cacti are generally safe for pets and children, but it's important to watch for curious children and pets. Although they may have spines or thorns, they're not toxic if touched or pricked.
If you are a plant lover, you cannot resist without having it at home. So, grab it now.
Watering Needs
Often, people worry they aren't giving their plants enough water when, in reality, they are over-watering them. This is especially the case with Echinocereus cacti as they don't do well in too much moisture which can result in root rot.
It's best to wait until the top two inches of soil are completely dry before watering. Watch out for signs of dehydration such as a pale discoloration and shriveled stem indicating that your ruby rainbow cactus is consuming its interior water supply. Besides hydrating correctly, it's also crucial to ensure that the potting soil drains quickly to avoid damaging cactus roots.
As drought-tolerant plants, rainbow hedgehog cactus can thrive with less frequent watering, and if you forget to water them for a month or more, they will probably survive just fine. This mimics the natural rainfall patterns in its native desert habitat. It's always better to underwater than to overwater, as cacti are adapted to survive in dry environments.
Light Requirements
The Rainbow hedgehog cactus thrives in full sun to partial shade. It prefers a sunny spot where it can receive several hours of sunlight each day. However, it's important to avoid placing it in direct, intense sunlight, as this can lead to sunburn and damage the plant.
If you are growing your ruby rainbow outdoors, make sure that it receives at least six hours of direct sunlight per day. Potted indoor plants require four hours of direct sunlight, which can be achieved by locating them on a sunny south or west-facing windowsill.
If you notice that your rainbow cactus is stretching or leaning toward the light source, it may be an indication that it needs more sunlight. On the other hand, if the rainbow plant starts to show signs of sunburn, such as yellowing or browning of the skin, it may be getting too much direct light.
Remember to rotate your rainbow hedgehog cactus every few weeks to ensure even exposure to light and promote balanced growth. By providing the Rainbow Hedgehog Cactus with the right amount of bright, indirect light, you can help it thrive and maintain its vibrant colors.
Optimal Soil & Fertilizer Needs
Ruby Rainbow prefers very airy, porous, nutrient-rich soil with a pH of 5.6 - 6.5, Cacti require fast-draining soil that dries completely between waterings. Your soil must have a sandy texture and a low water-holding capacity, just like desert soil. Soggy, wet soil can damage your cactus and contribute to bacterial and fungal rot. In addition, because of a lack of oxygen, soggy soil substitutes air pockets with water, resulting in an anaerobic environment that can kill your Echinocereus rubispinus plant.
As an alternative, you can create your own potting mix by combining equal portions of perlite, coarse sand, and good natural potting soil. Ideally, you want to use our specialized cactus potting mix that contains 5 natural substrates and organic mycorrhizae to promote the development of a strong root system that helps your cactus to thrive.
When it comes to fertilizing the Rainbow hedgehog cactus, it doesn't require frequent feeding. During the growing season, which is typically spring, you can use a balanced cactus fertilizer NPK (5-10-50) once a year. However, during the dormant period in fall and winter, it's best to avoid fertilizing altogether.
Remember, it's important not to over-fertilize your rainbow hedgehog cactus, as this can lead to nutrient burn and other issues. Always follow the recommended dosage and frequency. With well-draining porous soil and occasional, appropriate fertilization, you can help the rainbow hedgehog cactus thrive and maintain its vibrant colors.
Hardiness Zone & More
The Echinocereus rigidissimus var rubispinus is native to the southwestern United States and can tolerate a wide range of temperatures. It is generally cold tolerant in USDA hardiness zones 8 to 11, which means it can withstand temperatures as low as 10°F to 50°F. However, it's best to protect the rainbow hedgehog cactus from freezing temperatures and frost for extended periods, as prolonged exposure to extreme cold can damage or kill your Echinocereus rigidissimus ssp rubispinus.
In terms of humidity, the Rainbow hedgehog cactus prefers a dry climate with low humidity. It can tolerate low humidity levels, making it suitable for arid and desert-like environments. It's important to avoid overwatering the cactus, as excessive moisture can lead to root rot and other issues. Allow the soil to dry out between waterings to mimic its natural habitat.
By providing the rainbow hedgehog cactus with the appropriate temperature range and low humidity conditions, you can help it thrive and maintain its beautiful appearance. Remember to protect it from freezing temperatures and avoid overwatering for optimal care.
Give it a try, and enjoy the beauty and intrigue this unique Echinocereus rigidissimus rubispinus - rainbow hedgehog cactus brings to your home or garden!
| Bloom Season | Late Spring |
|---|---|
| Bloom Season | Late Spring, summer |
| Botanical Name | Echinocereus rigidissimus |
| Common Name | Ruby rainbow |
| Common Name | Ruby rainbow, Rainbow cactus, Arizona rainbow, Rainbow hedgehog cactus |
| Dormancy | Winter |
| Family | Cactaceae |
| Flower Color | Rosepink |
| Flower Color | Rosepink, lavender or magenta |
| Genus | Echinocereus |
| Growth Habit | Branching cylindrical shaped |
| Growth Habit | Branching cylindrical shaped, solitary stem |
| Hardiness Zone | 10, 11 |
| Hardiness Zone | 10 11(USDA) |
| Mature Size | 30 cm tall |
| Mature Size | 30 cm tall, 11 cm wide |
| Native Area | United States |
| Native Area | United States, Mexico |
| Plant Type | Perennial cactus |
| Propagation | By cuttings |
| Propagation | By cuttings, seeds |
| Resistance | Drought tolerant |
| Resistance | Drought tolerant, deer resistance |
| Soil PH | 6.5 |
| Soil PH | 6.5, Acidic, Neutral |
| Soil Type | Cactus potting mix soil |
| Special Features | Over size flower |
| Special Features | Over size flower, squatty stem |
| Sun Exposure | Full sun, partial shade |
| Toxicity | Safe for humans |
| Toxicity | Safe for humans, Safe for pets |
| Watering Needs | Low |
- Description
- Key Plant Features
Calling all green thumbs! Are you tired of the same old cactus plants in your collection? Looking for something unique that will make your neighbors envious? Introducing the vibrant rainbow hedgehog cactus, known as Echinocereus rigidissimus rubispinus. This stunning columnar cactus is a variety of the Echinocereus rigidissimus (rainbow cactus), distinguished by short, dusty red-purple spines and dull purple-red stigma lobes.
Native to the southwestern United States and northern Mexico, this rainbow hedgehog cactus plant has several other common names, such as Echinocereus pectinatus rubispinus, ruby rainbow, Arizona rainbow cactus, and rainbow cactus. This rainbow hedgehog cactus is a small to medium-sized columnar cactus that typically grows up to 10 inches tall and 8 inches wide.
The term "rubispinus" in the scientific name Echinocereus rigidissimus rubispinus refers to the ruby-reddish spines of the cactus. "Rubis" is derived from the Latin word for "red," while "spinus" refers to spines. The spines are long and rigid, providing protection against predators and helping to reduce water loss through evaporation. The body of the rainbow hedgehog cactus itself is cylindrical and covered in a waxy coating, giving it a unique texture and appearance.
The flowers of the rainbow hedgehog cactus produce stunning trumpet-shaped blooms in shades of bright pink at the top of the cactus during the late spring and summer months. They are usually about 2–3 inches in diameter and attract pollinators such as bees and butterflies.
You can propagate the rainbow hedgehog cactus by either offsets or seeds. To take an offset, carefully remove some roots while keeping others attached. Allow them to dry in the open air until a callus forms on the cut end. Then, plant in cactus potting soil in a bright, warm location.
Rainbow hedgehog cacti are generally safe for pets and children, but it's important to watch for curious children and pets. Although they may have spines or thorns, they're not toxic if touched or pricked.
If you are a plant lover, you cannot resist without having it at home. So, grab it now.
Watering Needs
Often, people worry they aren't giving their plants enough water when, in reality, they are over-watering them. This is especially the case with Echinocereus cacti as they don't do well in too much moisture which can result in root rot.
It's best to wait until the top two inches of soil are completely dry before watering. Watch out for signs of dehydration such as a pale discoloration and shriveled stem indicating that your ruby rainbow cactus is consuming its interior water supply. Besides hydrating correctly, it's also crucial to ensure that the potting soil drains quickly to avoid damaging cactus roots.
As drought-tolerant plants, rainbow hedgehog cactus can thrive with less frequent watering, and if you forget to water them for a month or more, they will probably survive just fine. This mimics the natural rainfall patterns in its native desert habitat. It's always better to underwater than to overwater, as cacti are adapted to survive in dry environments.
Light Requirements
The Rainbow hedgehog cactus thrives in full sun to partial shade. It prefers a sunny spot where it can receive several hours of sunlight each day. However, it's important to avoid placing it in direct, intense sunlight, as this can lead to sunburn and damage the plant.
If you are growing your ruby rainbow outdoors, make sure that it receives at least six hours of direct sunlight per day. Potted indoor plants require four hours of direct sunlight, which can be achieved by locating them on a sunny south or west-facing windowsill.
If you notice that your rainbow cactus is stretching or leaning toward the light source, it may be an indication that it needs more sunlight. On the other hand, if the rainbow plant starts to show signs of sunburn, such as yellowing or browning of the skin, it may be getting too much direct light.
Remember to rotate your rainbow hedgehog cactus every few weeks to ensure even exposure to light and promote balanced growth. By providing the Rainbow Hedgehog Cactus with the right amount of bright, indirect light, you can help it thrive and maintain its vibrant colors.
Optimal Soil & Fertilizer Needs
Ruby Rainbow prefers very airy, porous, nutrient-rich soil with a pH of 5.6 - 6.5, Cacti require fast-draining soil that dries completely between waterings. Your soil must have a sandy texture and a low water-holding capacity, just like desert soil. Soggy, wet soil can damage your cactus and contribute to bacterial and fungal rot. In addition, because of a lack of oxygen, soggy soil substitutes air pockets with water, resulting in an anaerobic environment that can kill your Echinocereus rubispinus plant.
As an alternative, you can create your own potting mix by combining equal portions of perlite, coarse sand, and good natural potting soil. Ideally, you want to use our specialized cactus potting mix that contains 5 natural substrates and organic mycorrhizae to promote the development of a strong root system that helps your cactus to thrive.
When it comes to fertilizing the Rainbow hedgehog cactus, it doesn't require frequent feeding. During the growing season, which is typically spring, you can use a balanced cactus fertilizer NPK (5-10-50) once a year. However, during the dormant period in fall and winter, it's best to avoid fertilizing altogether.
Remember, it's important not to over-fertilize your rainbow hedgehog cactus, as this can lead to nutrient burn and other issues. Always follow the recommended dosage and frequency. With well-draining porous soil and occasional, appropriate fertilization, you can help the rainbow hedgehog cactus thrive and maintain its vibrant colors.
Hardiness Zone & More
The Echinocereus rigidissimus var rubispinus is native to the southwestern United States and can tolerate a wide range of temperatures. It is generally cold tolerant in USDA hardiness zones 8 to 11, which means it can withstand temperatures as low as 10°F to 50°F. However, it's best to protect the rainbow hedgehog cactus from freezing temperatures and frost for extended periods, as prolonged exposure to extreme cold can damage or kill your Echinocereus rigidissimus ssp rubispinus.
In terms of humidity, the Rainbow hedgehog cactus prefers a dry climate with low humidity. It can tolerate low humidity levels, making it suitable for arid and desert-like environments. It's important to avoid overwatering the cactus, as excessive moisture can lead to root rot and other issues. Allow the soil to dry out between waterings to mimic its natural habitat.
By providing the rainbow hedgehog cactus with the appropriate temperature range and low humidity conditions, you can help it thrive and maintain its beautiful appearance. Remember to protect it from freezing temperatures and avoid overwatering for optimal care.
Give it a try, and enjoy the beauty and intrigue this unique Echinocereus rigidissimus rubispinus - rainbow hedgehog cactus brings to your home or garden!
| Bloom Season | Late Spring |
|---|---|
| Bloom Season | Late Spring, summer |
| Botanical Name | Echinocereus rigidissimus |
| Common Name | Ruby rainbow |
| Common Name | Ruby rainbow, Rainbow cactus, Arizona rainbow, Rainbow hedgehog cactus |
| Dormancy | Winter |
| Family | Cactaceae |
| Flower Color | Rosepink |
| Flower Color | Rosepink, lavender or magenta |
| Genus | Echinocereus |
| Growth Habit | Branching cylindrical shaped |
| Growth Habit | Branching cylindrical shaped, solitary stem |
| Hardiness Zone | 10, 11 |
| Hardiness Zone | 10 11(USDA) |
| Mature Size | 30 cm tall |
| Mature Size | 30 cm tall, 11 cm wide |
| Native Area | United States |
| Native Area | United States, Mexico |
| Plant Type | Perennial cactus |
| Propagation | By cuttings |
| Propagation | By cuttings, seeds |
| Resistance | Drought tolerant |
| Resistance | Drought tolerant, deer resistance |
| Soil PH | 6.5 |
| Soil PH | 6.5, Acidic, Neutral |
| Soil Type | Cactus potting mix soil |
| Special Features | Over size flower |
| Special Features | Over size flower, squatty stem |
| Sun Exposure | Full sun, partial shade |
| Toxicity | Safe for humans |
| Toxicity | Safe for humans, Safe for pets |
| Watering Needs | Low |