Echinocereus Rigidissimus v. rubispinus - Rainbow Cactus - Last one!

Echinocereus Rigidissimus v. rubispinus - Rainbow Cactus

You will receive the exact specimen shown here.
Measures 6" tall.
Roots as shown.
Showcased here in one-of-a-kind handmade pottery (sold separately).
Will be shipped bare root. 

The rainbow hedgehog cactus (Echinocereus rigidissimus v. rubispinus) is a striking columnar cactus known for its vibrant, ruby-red spines and magenta flowers. It is a variety of the Echinocereus rigidissimus species and is native to the southwestern United States and northwestern Mexico.

 
Key Characteristics:

• Appearance: This solitary, stocky cactus has erect, cylindrical stems covered in closely set, pectinate (comb-like) spines. New spines are a brilliant magenta, pink, or ruby-red, which can fade to yellow or light pink as they mature.
• Size: Stems typically grow up to 10 inches tall and 3 inches in diameter.
• Flowers: The rainbow hedgehog cactus produces showy, funnel-shaped flowers in late spring or early summer. The blossoms are a bright pink or magenta with white throats and bloom in a ring on the crown of the stem.
• Unique Spines: The specific name "rubispinus" refers to its red spines, a distinguishing feature of this variety.
  
  

Cultivation Requirements:

• Sunlight: Provide full sun exposure. The cactus's spine coloration becomes more intense with more sun.
• Watering: As a desert cactus, it is extremely drought-tolerant. Water thoroughly, but allow the soil to dry out completely between waterings to prevent root rot. Overwatering is a common issue with this species.
• Soil: Use a fast-draining cactus and succulent mix. The cactus prefers a neutral to slightly acidic compost with plenty of grit.
• Hardiness: It is cold-tolerant in USDA hardiness zones 8 to 11 but should be protected from prolonged freezing temperatures and frost. It can withstand temperatures down to about 10°F (-12°C) for short periods.
• Fertilizer: During its growing season in spring and summer, fertilize to encourage growth and blooms.
• Propagation: This variety is typically propagated by seed, as it rarely produces offsets.