rainbow cactus
Echinocereus rigidissimus
RHS AGM 2012
USDA zones9 to 11
SunNeeds full sun (6+ hours)
WaterNeeds dry soil
Size12 inches tall
- Habit
- Cactus/succulent
- Bloom season
- Spring, summer, autumn, winter
- Bloom color
- Pink , purple
- Soil types
- Sand, loam
- Soil pH
- Acid, alkaline, neutral
Garden uses
Attracts
Notes
Rainbow cactus (Echinocereus rigidissimus) is a succulent for borders and containers. It grows outdoors year-round in USDA zone 9 and warmer, down to about 20°F (-7°C). In colder areas, grow it as a houseplant or bring it indoors for winter. This plant likes full sun and dry, sandy or loamy soil. It is not a favorite of deer or rabbits, though hungry ones will eat almost anything. Pink and white bands on the stems give it its name, and a juicy fruit follows the large purplish-lavender flowers.
Pairs well with Prickly-pear, White sage, Deergrass, and Mexican daisy.
Native range
North America.