Echinocereus dasyacanthus
Echinocereus dasyacanthus is a species of cactus that belongs to the family Cactaceae. It is an attractive small-sized cactus that grows up to 10 cm in height and 5 cm in diameter, with several stems branching from the base. The cactus is characterized by its spiny stems which are bright green in color and contain around 12 ribs. Echinocereus dasyacanthus produces showy pink or magenta flowers which bloom between April and June, making it a popular ornamental plant.
This cactus species is native to the Chihuahuan Desert in southwestern United States, particularly in Texas and New Mexico. It can be found growing in rocky slopes, limestone hills, and mesquite shrublands, where it is adapted to the arid climate and hot temperatures.









Morphology and Characteristics
Echinocereus dasyacanthus is a small, cylindrical cactus that grows up to 10 cm in height and 5 cm in diameter. It has several stems branching from the base, which are bright green in color and contain around 12 ribs. The stems are covered in dense, spiny, needle-like structures called areoles, which can be white or brown in color and range from 1-5 mm in length.
Echinocereus dasyacanthus produces showy pink or magenta flowers which bloom between April and June. The flowers are funnel-shaped and measure around 3-4 cm in length and width. They have numerous petals, ranging from 16 to 30, and a dense cluster of yellow stamens in the center.
Like all cacti, Echinocereus dasyacanthus exhibits several unique adaptations that allow it to survive in harsh desert environments. These include reduced leaves, thick stems for water storage, and shallow but extensive root systems for absorbing water in a fast-draining soil. Additionally, its spiny stems serve as a defense mechanism against herbivores.
Taxonomy and Classification
Echinocereus dasyacanthus is a species of cactus that belongs to the family Cactaceae, which comprises approximately 175 genera and 2500 species of succulent plants. E. dasyacanthus is a member of the Echinocereus genus, which includes around 70-75 species of cacti native to North and South America.
The taxonomy of Echinocereus dasyacanthus is as follows: Kingdom: Plantae Clade: Tracheophytes Clade: Angiosperms Clade: Eudicots Order: Caryophyllales Family: Cactaceae Genus: Echinocereus Species: E. dasyacanthus
There are no significant subspecies or variants of Echinocereus dasyacanthus. However, there are several closely related species within the Echinocereus genus, such as Echinocereus enneacanthus, Echinocereus fendleri, and Echinocereus stramineus, among others.
Distribution and Habitat
Echinocereus dasyacanthus is native to the Chihuahuan Desert in southwestern United States, particularly in Texas and New Mexico. It is also found in some parts of northern Mexico.
Within its range, Echinocereus dasyacanthus can be found growing in rocky slopes, limestone hills, and mesquite shrublands. It prefers well-drained soils and full sun exposure, and it is adapted to arid climates with hot temperatures and low humidity.
Due to its attractive appearance, Echinocereus dasyacanthus has been collected from the wild for ornamental purposes, which has led to a decline in some populations. However, it is not listed as a threatened or endangered species.
Cultivation and Care
Echinocereus dasyacanthus is a popular ornamental cactus, and it can be grown in pots or in the ground in suitable climates.
This cactus prefers well-draining soil with good air circulation, as it is prone to rotting if exposed to excessive moisture. It grows best in full sun exposure but can tolerate partial shade. Echinocereus dasyacanthus is tolerant of high temperatures but should be protected from frost and freezing temperatures.
In terms of watering, Echinocereus dasyacanthus requires infrequent but deep watering during the growing season (spring and summer) and very little water during the dormant season (fall and winter). Overwatering should be avoided, as it can lead to root rot.
Propagation of Echinocereus dasyacanthus can be done by seeds or stem cuttings. Seeds should be sown in well-draining soil and kept moist until they germinate. Stem cuttings should be allowed to dry out for a few days before planting to prevent rotting.
Common pests and diseases affecting Echinocereus dasyacanthus include spider mites, mealybugs, and fungal infections. These can be treated with insecticides or fungicides, respectively, as needed.
Economic and Ecological Importance
Echinocereus dasyacanthus has both economic and ecological importance.
From an economic standpoint, Echinocereus dasyacanthus is a popular ornamental cactus due to its attractive appearance and showy flowers. It is often cultivated in gardens, rockeries, and xeriscapes, and it can also be grown in pots indoors. Additionally, some cultivars of Echinocereus dasyacanthus have been developed for commercial use, such as for cut flowers.
From an ecological standpoint, Echinocereus dasyacanthus plays an important role in its native ecosystem as a source of food and habitat for several animal species. The cactus provides nesting sites and shelter for birds, small mammals, and reptiles, and its flowers attract pollinators such as bees and butterflies. In addition, the fruit of Echinocereus dasyacanthus is edible and is consumed by several animal species, including rodents and birds.
Overall, Echinocereus dasyacanthus contributes to the biodiversity of its native range and is an important component of arid ecosystems in southwestern United States and northern Mexico.