Echinocereus scheeri

RHS Plant Profile
Scheer's hedgehog cactus

Synonyms

Cereus scheeri
Echinocereus salm-dyckianus

Award of Garden Merit
Cactus Succulent

A clump-forming cactus with 6 to 10 ribbed, upright or trailing stems. In spring it bears trumpet-shaped flowers to 8cm across; the petals may be red, pink or purple.

Position

Full sun

Soil Types

Loam, Sand

Max Height

0.1-0.5 metres

Max Spread

0.1-0.5 metres

Size

Time to Maturity
5–10 years
Max Spread
0.1-0.5 metres
Max Height
0.1-0.5 metres

Growing Conditions

Loam Sand
Moisture
Well–drained
pH
Acid or Alkaline or Neutral

Position

Full sun
Aspect
South–facing or West–facing
Exposure
Sheltered
Hardiness
H2
Drought Resistance
Yes

Colour & Scent

Season Stem Flower Foliage Fruit
Spring
Summer
Autumn
Winter

Botanical Details

Family
Cactaceae
Native to GB/Ireland
No
Foliage
Evergreen
Habit
Clump forming
Genus
Echinocereus can have deeply ribbed cylindrical or globose stems, sometimes forming clumps, and large funnel-shaped flowers
Name Status
Correct
Plant Range
NW Mexico

How to Grow

Cultivation

Grow in cactus compost in full light. From midspring to early autum water moderately and apply a half-strength balanced liquid fertiliser monthly; keep completely dry at other times. See houseplant cacti and succulent cultivation for further information

Propagation

Propagate by sowing seed at 21°C in spring; separate offsets or take stem cuttings in spring or summer

Suggested planting locations and garden types

  • Houseplants
  • Patio and container plants
  • Sub-tropical
  • Low Maintenance
  • Conservatory and greenhouse

Pruning

No pruning required

Pests

May be susceptible to mealybugs and scale insects

Diseases

Generally disease-free