Devil's-Head Cactus, Biznaga Meloncillo
Synonym: Meyerocactus horizonthalonius
Family: Cactaceae
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Recommended Temperature Zone: sunset: 12-24 USDA: 8b-10 Frost Tolerance: Hardy to 14° F (-10°C) Minimum Avg. Temperature: 55°F (12°C) Sun Exposure: Full sun Origin: Mexico (Nuevo Leon, San Luis Potosi), USA (Arizona, New Mexico) Growth Habits: Cylindrical, generally solitary, flattened globose, glaucous green stem slowly growing to 12 inches tall (30 cm), 6 inches in diameter (15 cm) or more; 5 to 13 ribs; round areoles; flattened reddish spines; 3 to 5 centrals, 0.1 inch thick (2.5 mm); 6 to 9 radials, 1 inch long (2.5 cm). Watering Needs: Water carefully, needs very little water, keep dry in winter, needs good drainage Propagation: Seeds |
The variety Echinocactus horizonthalonius var. nicholii from southern Arizona, and in Sonora in the Sierra del Viejo is classified as endangered. It has typically 8 ribs, 3 centrals, 5 radials.
Cultural Practices:
This Echinocactus comes from areas receiving 8 to 12 inches of water a year (20-30 cm) with punishing heat and sun. It needs little water and a lot of sun. Most varieties are coming from soils derived from limestone and do better with some limestone in the soil mixture.
Blooming Habits:
The Echinocactus horizonthalonius has pinkish-red flowers 2 to 3 inches in diameter, that are produced from the end of March to late May. The red fruits are oblong, semi dry, containing black seeds. They mature in May-June in habitat.
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