Echinocereus
Echinocereus fasciculatus
Scientific classification
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Echinocereus

Species

Echinocereus is a genus of ribbed, usually small to medium-sized cylindrical cacti, comprising about 50 species from the southern United States and Mexico. They are commonly known as hedgehog cacti, though the term also applies for Pediocactus. The flowers are usually large, and the fruit are edible. Most Echinocereus species prefer full sun. Several of the species are cold-hardy, tolerating temperatures as low as -23°C / -10°F in dry conditions.



The genera Morangaya G.D.Rowley and Wilcoxia Britton & Rose have been brought into synonymy with Echinocereus.

References edit

  • Fischer, Pierre C. 70 Common Cacti of the Southwest. City unknown: Southwest Parks and Monuments Association, 1989.
  • Freeman, Davi (2004). Cactiguide.com. Retrieved May 6th, 2005.
  • Ohr, Martina & Andreas (2005). Echinocereus Online. Retrieved May 7th, 2005.
  • Anderson, Miles (1998). The Ultimate Book of Cacti and Succulents. ISBN 1 85967 460 7. Lorenz Books.