Origin
Echinocereus fendleri (Engelm.) F. Seitz var. robustus (Peebles) L. Benson, commonly known as Fendler’s Hedgehog Cactus, is native to the southern United States and northern Mexico. It can be found growing in rocky and dry areas at elevations ranging from 1,000 to 6,500 feet.
Common Names
Fendler's Hedgehog Cactus, Robust Hedgehog Cactus, Devil's Tongue Cactus, and Rainbow Cactus are some common names used to refer to Echinocereus fendleri var. robustus.
Uses
Echinocereus fendleri var. robustus is used as an ornamental plant due to its attractive and showy flowers. The fruit of the plant is edible, and in some cases, used as a food source. Indigenous people of the southwestern United States and northern Mexico used the plant for medicinal purposes such as treating fever and skin irritations. Additionally, the plant is also used in traditional ceremonies as it symbolizes strength and endurance.
General Appearance
Echinocereus fendleri var. robustus is a small-sized, slow-growing cactus with a spiny stem that can reach up to 10 inches tall and 8 inches in diameter. The stem is green and oblong-shaped with 9 to 14 ribs and can have up to 9 central spines that are dark brown in color and up to 2 inches long. The plant usually produces solitary flowers that are bright pink to magenta with white interiors and range from 2 to 3 inches in length. The fruit of the plant is a green to reddish-brown berry that contains numerous small seeds.
Light Requirements
Echinocereus fendleri var. robustus thrives in full sun to partial shade. It is a desert cactus and therefore requires bright, indirect sunlight for most of the day. Too much shade can cause the plant to become leggy and weak.
Temperature Requirements
This plant is adapted to hot, dry desert conditions and can tolerate high temperatures ranging from 85-100°F (29-38°C). However, during the winter months, it requires cooler temperatures ranging from 40-55°F (4-13°C) and limited exposure to frost.
Soil Requirements
Echinocereus fendleri var. robustus prefers well-draining soil with a pH range of 6.0-7.5. Sandy, rocky soils are ideal as they allow excess water to drain away from the roots and prevent root rot. It can also grow in nutrient-poor soils as it is adapted to survive in harsh desert conditions.
Cultivation methods
Echinocereus fendleri var. robustus is a slow-growing cactus that can be propagated from seeds or cuttings. When growing from seeds, it is essential to use a well-draining soil mix that can hold moisture while remaining aerated at the same time. For cuttings, it is vital to let the cutting dry for a few days before planting it in a well-draining soil mix. The plant requires lots of sunlight, and it is ideal to grow it outdoors if possible.
Watering needs
Watering should be done sparingly, and care should be taken only to water the soil and not the plant. Overwatering can lead to root rot, which can be fatal for the plant. It is ideal to water the plant when the soil is dry to the touch, which can be around once a week during the growing season. However, take care not to water during the winter months when the plant goes dormant.
Fertilization
Echinocereus fendleri var. robustus does not require much fertilization, but a slow-release, balanced fertilizer can be added during the growing season. It is essential to follow the manufacturer's instructions and to avoid over-fertilizing, which can lead to salt build-up in the soil. Over time, the cactus may become less lively, indicating that it needs fertilization.
Pruning
Pruning is not necessary when it comes to Echinocereus fendleri var. robustus. However, removing any dead or diseased parts of the plant can help prevent the problem from spreading. Pruning can also be done to control the size and shape of the cactus. Always ensure to use a sharp and sterile pair of pruning shears to avoid damaging the plant in the process.
Propagation of Echinocereus fendleri (Engelm.) F. Seitz var. robustus (Peebles) L. Benson
Echinocereus fendleri (Engelm.) F. Seitz var. robustus (Peebles) L. Benson can be propagated by various methods, including seeds, cuttings, and offsets.
Seed Propagation
Seeds of Echinocereus fendleri (Engelm.) F. Seitz var. robustus (Peebles) L. Benson can be sown indoors or directly in the ground. The best time to sow seeds is in the spring or early summer. Before sowing, the seeds should be scarified to increase the germination rate. To scarify, soak the seeds in hot water for a few hours, or gently scrape the seeds with sandpaper. After scarification, the seeds can be sown in a well-draining soil mix, kept moist, and placed in a warm and bright spot. Once the seedlings have developed two or more sets of true leaves, they can be transplanted into their permanent location.
Cutting Propagation
Cuttings of Echinocereus fendleri (Engelm.) F. Seitz var. robustus (Peebles) L. Benson can be taken in the spring or summer. Cut a piece of stem with a clean, sharp blade and let it dry for a day or two. Then, dip the cuttings in rooting hormone and plant them in a well-draining soil mix, burying about a third of the stem. Keep the soil moist and place the cutting in a warm and bright spot, avoiding direct sunlight. After a few weeks, the cutting should start developing roots and new growth.
Offset Propagation
Echinocereus fendleri (Engelm.) F. Seitz var. robustus (Peebles) L. Benson can develop offsets, which are small plants that grow from the base of the mother plant. To propagate offsets, carefully remove them from the mother plant, making sure to keep the roots intact. Then, plant the offsets in a well-draining soil mix and water thoroughly. Place the offsets in a bright spot, avoiding direct sunlight, and wait for them to establish roots and grow.
Disease Management
Echinocereus fendleri var. robustus is generally a healthy plant with few disease problems, but certain conditions can lead to fungal or bacterial infections. One of the most common diseases is root rot, caused by excessive watering or poor drainage. To prevent this, make sure the soil is well-draining and avoid waterlogged conditions. If you suspect root rot, reduce watering and allow the soil to dry out completely before watering again. You can also apply a fungicide to the soil to help control the disease.
Another fungal disease that affects this plant is powdery mildew, which can be caused by high humidity and poor air circulation. This can be prevented by improving ventilation and avoiding overhead watering. If powdery mildew is detected, you can spray the plant with a fungicide, but it is important to minimize its use as it can harm beneficial insects and other organisms in the ecosystem.
Pest Management
Although Echinocereus fendleri var. robustus is relatively resistant to pests, there are a few insects that can infest the plant. One of these is the spider mite, which is a tiny, sap-sucking insect that can cause the leaves to become yellow and dry. You can prevent spider mite infestations by maintaining proper humidity levels and regularly wiping the leaves with a damp cloth. If an infestation occurs, you can control it by spraying the plant with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Another pest that can infest this plant is the mealybug, which is a small, soft-bodied insect that secretes a white, cottony substance. This can cause stunted growth and yellowing of the leaves. To prevent mealybug infestations, avoid over-fertilization and maintain good air circulation around the plant. If an infestation occurs, you can control it by using a cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol to remove the insects, or by spraying the plant with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
