A small native cactus that grows in loose clumps of upright, spiny stems. In spring it covers itself in large magenta flowers, followed by red fruit that gives it the nickname strawberry hedgehog.
Living with it in the Phoenix Valley
Watering
Follow the cactus guidance in our Landscape Care guide, which calls for hand-watering only when needed. Water deeply but rarely in the warm season, and hold off in winter. Rich or poorly drained soil causes root rot.
Pruning
None needed. Older clumps can be divided if you want more plants.
Soil
Use rocky, porous, well-drained soil with no added compost or organic matter.
How our designers use it
Spring color in rock gardens
Tucked among boulders and gravel, it stays low and quiet most of the year, then puts on one of the brightest flower shows of spring.
Edges of a cactus bed
Its small size suits the front of a planting, in front of taller barrels, agaves and shrubs.
Containers
It does well in shallow pots and planters where the flowers can be seen up close.
Good to know
Around the pool
Small but very spiny and easy to miss at ground level. Keep it out of reach along pool decks, paths and play areas.
