scarlet hedgehog cactus
Echinocereus coccineus
USDA zones8 to 11
SunHandles full sun to partial shade
WaterNeeds dry soil
Size12 to 24 inches tall
- Habit
- Cactus/succulent
- Bloom season
- Spring, summer
- Bloom color
- Red , orange
- Soil types
- Sand, loam
- Soil pH
- Acid, alkaline, neutral
Garden uses
Attracts
Notes
Scarlet hedgehog cactus (Echinocereus coccineus) is a succulent for borders, containers, and xeriscape beds. It is hardy to USDA zone 8, or down to 10°F (-12°C). This plant likes full sun to part shade and dry, sandy or loamy soil. Red or orange-red flowers open in spring to early summer and can be numerous on larger clumps. Hummingbirds and bees visit the blooms. It is not a favorite of deer or rabbits, though hungry ones will eat almost anything.
Pairs well with American century plant, Narrow-leaf chalksticks, and Hummingbird sage.
Native range
AZ, CA, CO, NM, and 3 more places. See all 7
AZ, CA, CO, NM, NV, TX, and UT.