Scientific Name
Echinocereus rigidissimus subsp. rubispinus (G.Frank & A.B.Lau) N.P.Taylor
Common Name(s)
Pink Comb Cactus, Rainbow Cactus, Ruby Rainbow
Synonym(s)
Echinocereus pectinatus var. rubispinus, Echinocereus pectinatus var. rubrispinus, Echinocereus rigidissimus var. rubispinus, Echinocereus rigidissimus var. rubrispinus
Scientific Classification
Family: Cactaceae
Subfamily: Cactoideae
Tribe: Pachycereeae
Genus: Echinocereus
Etymology
The subspecific epithet "rubispinus" (pronounced roo-bih-SPIN-us) means "ruby red thorn-bush" and refers to the color of the spines.
Description
Echinocereus rigidissimus subsp. rubispinus is a small columnar cactus with erect cylindrical stems densely covered with ruby-red spines. The stems can grow up to 10 inches (25 cm) tall and 3 inches (7.5 cm) in diameter.
The flowers are pinkish-red, magenta, or red and have white throats. They can reach a diameter of 4 inches (10 cm) and appear near the top of the stem in late spring and summer.
Hardiness
USDA hardiness zones 9a to 11b: from 20 °F (−6.7 °C) to 50 °F (+10 °C).
How to Grow and Care
If you have successfully grown other globular cacti, you will likely have success with Echinocereus. One of the key success factors is avoiding any hint of wet soil. Because of their weak root systems, these cacti are particularly susceptible to root rot, which can ultimately kill the plant.
Echinocereus generally thrive in intense bright light, require minimal watering, and benefit from a light fertilizer application. However, they are vulnerable to pests such as mealybugs and aphids.
These cacti grow slowly and typically need to be repotted only every other year. You can extend the time between repottings by removing and potting any offsets into their own pots. When repotting, carefully remove the cactus from its pot and clear away any clumped soil. Since Echinocereus have shallow roots and weak root systems, be cautious not to damage the roots during the process.
Learn more at How to Grow and Care for Echinocereus.
Origin
Echinocereus rigidissimus subsp. rubispinus is native to Mexico.
Forms
Links
- Back to genus Echinocereus
- Succupedia: Browse succulents by Scientific Name, Common Name, Genus, Family, USDA Hardiness Zone, Origin, or cacti by Genus
Photo Gallery
Click on a photo to see a larger version.
