Origin and Common Names:
Echinocereus blankii (Poselg.) Poselg. ex Rumpl. var. angusticeps (Clover) L. Benson, commonly known as Blank's hedgehog cactus or Clover's hedgehog cactus, is a plant species in the Cactaceae family. This plant is native to the southwestern United States and northern Mexico, where it is commonly found in rocky and gravelly soils in desert regions.
General Appearance:
Blank's hedgehog cactus is a small-sized cactus that grows up to 8 to 12 inches (20-30 cm) in height, with a globular, green stem that has a diameter of 2 to 3 inches (5-7.6cm). The stem is covered with several rows of whitish spines that are up to 1 inch (2.5 cm) long. The cactus has a beautiful pinkish-red flower, which grows up to 3 inches (7.6 cm) in diameter and blooms in the spring or early summer. The flower is followed by a red, edible fruit, which is about 1 inch (2.5 cm) long and is sweet and juicy.
Uses:
Blank's hedgehog cactus is not commonly cultivated, but it is valued as an ornamental plant for its attractive flowers. Native Americans used the plant for medicinal purposes, such as treating wounds, sore throats, and stomach problems. The fruit of the cactus was also consumed for its sweet and juicy taste. However, the plant is now protected in the wild, and its collection and use are highly regulated.
Light Requirements
Echinocereus blankii var. angusticeps prefers bright light and can tolerate partial shade. This cactus grows naturally in the southwestern regions of the United States, where it receives high levels of sunlight.
Temperature Requirements
This cactus is well-adapted to hot and dry conditions, with optimal growth occurring between 70-90°F (21-32°C). In the winter, it can tolerate cooler temperatures but should not be exposed to frost or freezing conditions.
Soil Requirements
Echinocereus blankii var. angusticeps prefers well-draining soil and can tolerate a variety of soil types, including sandy and rocky soils. It is adapted to grow in nutrient-poor soils, making it an excellent candidate for rock gardens or xeriscaping projects. When growing in containers, the soil should be amended with coarse sand or perlite to ensure adequate drainage.
Cultivation Methods
Echinocereus blankii (Poselg.) Poselg. ex Rumpl. var. angusticeps (Clover) L. Benson prefers a well-draining soil mix. A mixture of sand, perlite, and peat moss is excellent for potting. The plant grows best in full sun and can tolerate some shade. If you live in a warm climate, it's okay to grow the plant outdoors. However, if you live in a colder region, it's best to grow the plant indoors and provide artificial light.Watering Needs
Echinocereus blankii (Poselg.) Poselg. ex Rumpl. var. angusticeps (Clover) L. Benson is a drought-tolerant plant, and overwatering can lead to root rot. It's best to water the plant deeply but infrequently. During the growing season, water the plant once a week, but during the dormant season, reduce watering to once a month. Always make sure the soil is dry before watering the plant.Fertilization
Echinocereus blankii (Poselg.) Poselg. ex Rumpl. var. angusticeps (Clover) L. Benson doesn't require much fertilization. During the growing season, you can fertilize the plant with a balanced fertilizer once a month. When the plant enters the dormant season, stop fertilization altogether.Pruning
Echinocereus blankii (Poselg.) Poselg. ex Rumpl. var. angusticeps (Clover) L. Benson doesn't require pruning. However, if you notice any dead or diseased branches, it's best to remove them. You can also cut back any leggy growth to promote bushier growth. Be sure to wear gloves while pruning as the spines are sharp.Propagation of Echinocereus blankii var. angusticeps
Echinocereus blankii var. angusticeps can be propagated both sexually and asexually.
Sexual propagation
Propagation by seeds is the most common form of sexual propagation. Seeds should be sown in well-draining soil, kept moist, and placed in a well-lit area with a temperature of 65-75 °F. It takes about two to three weeks for the seeds to germinate. Once the seedlings have grown to about 1/2 inch, they can be transplanted to small pots, and then to larger ones as they grow.
Asexual propagation
Echinocereus blankii var. angusticeps can also be propagated asexually through offsets and cuttings.
Offsets: The offsets grow from the base of the mature plant. In order to propagate, the offsets should be removed during the growing season and allowed to callus over for one to two weeks. They can then be planted in well-draining soil and watered sparingly. Once the offsets start to grow, they can be transplanted to their own pots.
Cuttings: Cuttings should be taken during the growing season, when the plant is actively growing. Cuttings should be allowed to callus for a few days and then planted in a well-draining soil mix. Water the cuttings lightly and place them in a bright area, but avoid direct sunlight. The cuttings should begin to root in a few weeks, and can be transplanted once new growth appears.
Disease Management
Echinocereus blankii var. angusticeps is a hardy plant that's not susceptible to many diseases. However, it's still essential to keep an eye out for any signs of diseases. The following are common Echinocereus blankii var. angusticeps diseases:
- Root Rot - This disease is caused by overwatering or soil that doesn't drain well. The roots will appear brown/black, mushy, and waterlogged. To manage root rot, remove the damaged roots, let the plant dry out completely, and repot in well-draining soil.
- Anthracnose - This fungus disease starts as small brown spots on the plant that eventually turn black and form sunken lesions. To manage anthracnose, remove any infected parts, use a fungicide, and ensure the plant is watered adequately.
- Mildew - This fungal disease appears as white powder on the plant's leaves and stems. To manage mildew, use a fungicide, promote good air circulation, and avoid watering the leaves.
Pest Management
Echinocereus blankii var. angusticeps is susceptible to a few pests. Here are some of the common pests that might affect the plant:
- Mealybugs - These pests are small, white, and cottony. They'll suck on the plant's sap, causing stunted growth and yellow spots. To manage mealybugs, use rubbing alcohol on a cotton swab and wipe off the pests. Using insecticide can also be helpful.
- Spider Mites - These small pests are reddish-brown in color and will form webs on the plant. They'll cause the plant's leaves to turn yellow and drop. To manage spider mites, use insecticidal soap or neem oil, and ensure the plant is well-hydrated.
- Scale Insects - These pests will appear as small, brown, disc-shaped bumps on the plant. They'll suck on the sap, causing stunted growth and yellow spots. To manage scale insects, use rubbing alcohol on a cotton swab and wipe off the pests. Using insecticide can also be helpful.
