Kingcup Cactus
Echinocereus triglochidiatus · Claretcup Hedgehog · Mojave Mound Cactus · Mound Hedgehog CactusUSDA | Grow Zone
8-11Outdoors all year in zones 8 to 11. Anywhere colder, keep it as a houseplant. Protect it below 30°F.
- Light
- Full sun, 6-8 hours
- Water
- Every 2-4 weeks
- Humidity
- 20-30%
- Temperature
- 70-100°F
- Difficulty
- Beginner
- Growth
- Moderate
- Mature size
- 1-2 ft tall/wide
Echinocereus triglochidiatus, commonly known as the Kingcup Cactus, is a striking succulent native to the southwestern United States. Its vibrant red flowers and unique mound shape make it a popular choice for desert gardens and indoor collections alike.
Ask Vesper about Kingcup Cactus
Ideal temperature
30-100°F is where it grows fastest.
Spacing and harvest
- Mature size
- 1-2 ft tall/wide
- Plant apart
- 12-24 in
- Frost
- Half hardy: light frost only
Everything it needs
9 essentials at a glance
Watering
Echinocereus triglochidiatus prefers to dry out completely between waterings.
Water every 2-4 weeks during the growing season (spring and summer), using enough water to saturate the soil but ensuring good drainage. In the fall and winter, reduce watering to once every 4-6 weeks. Signs of over-watering include yellowing or mushy stems, while under-watering may cause shriveling or browning of the cactus.
Light
This cactus thrives in full sun, requiring at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight daily.
Ideal placement is in a south or west-facing window if grown indoors, or in an outdoor garden with minimal shade. It can tolerate some partial shade but may not flower as profusely in lower light conditions.
Soil
Echinocereus triglochidiatus prefers a well-draining soil mix, ideally a cactus or succulent potting mix with added perlite or sand for improved drainage.
The pH should be slightly acidic to neutral, around 6.0 to 7.0. Ensure the pot has drainage holes to prevent water accumulation.
Humidity
This cactus prefers low humidity levels, typically around 20-30%.
To increase humidity, you can place a tray of water near the plant, but avoid direct contact with the soil. Signs of humidity stress include browning tips and stunted growth.
Temperature
Echinocereus triglochidiatus thrives in temperatures between 70-100°F (21-38°C) during the day and can tolerate cooler nights down to 30°F (-1°C).
It is hardy in USDA zones 8-11. Protect from frost and extreme cold, as prolonged exposure can damage the plant.
Fertilizing
Use a diluted cactus fertilizer with an NPK ratio of 10-10-10 or 5-10-10 during the growing season, applying every 4-6 weeks.
Reduce or stop fertilizing in the fall and winter. Signs of nutrient deficiency include pale or yellowing stems and poor growth.
Pruning
Pruning is generally not necessary for Echinocereus triglochidiatus, but you can remove any dead or damaged pads with sterilized tools.
If shaping is desired, do so in early spring before the growing season begins. Avoid cutting healthy pads as this can stress the plant.
Repotting
Repot every 2-3 years or when the plant outgrows its pot.
Choose a pot that is 1-2 inches larger in diameter. Signs it needs repotting include roots growing out of the drainage holes or stunted growth. To repot, carefully remove the plant, shake off excess soil, and place it in fresh cactus mix, ensuring it is stable.
Propagation
Propagation can be done through seeds or offsets.
For seeds, sow in a well-draining mix and keep moist until germination, which can take 2-4 weeks. For offsets, carefully remove them from the parent plant and allow them to callous for a few days before planting in a suitable mix. Best timing for propagation is in spring.
When it's unhappy
Yellowing stems
Why it happens
Over-watering or poor drainage.
How to fix it
Reduce watering frequency and ensure proper drainage.
Shriveling
Why it happens
Under-watering or insufficient light.
How to fix it
Increase watering frequency and ensure adequate sunlight.
Browning tips
Why it happens
Low humidity or extreme temperatures.
How to fix it
Maintain consistent temperatures and avoid drafts.
Root rot
Why it happens
Excess moisture in the soil.
How to fix it
Remove the plant from the pot, trim away rotten roots, and repot in dry soil.
Pest infestations
Why it happens
Mealybugs or spider mites.
How to fix it
Treat with insecticidal soap or neem oil and isolate affected plants.
Care through the year
Spring
Increase watering as the plant begins to actively grow, and consider fertilizing every 4-6 weeks.
Summer
Maintain regular watering and ensure it receives full sun exposure. Monitor for pests.
Fall
Gradually reduce watering as temperatures drop, and stop fertilizing by late fall.
Winter
Keep the plant in a cool, dry location, watering only once every 4-6 weeks to prevent rot.
Toxicity & Safety
Echinocereus triglochidiatus is non-toxic to pets and children. However, the spines can cause irritation if touched, so handle with care.
Good to know
How often should I water my Echinocereus triglochidiatus?
Water every 2-4 weeks during the growing season, allowing the soil to dry out completely between waterings.
What light conditions does the Kingcup Cactus prefer?
Echinocereus triglochidiatus thrives in full sun, requiring at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight daily.
What type of soil is best for Claretcup Hedgehog Cactus?
Use a well-draining cactus mix, ideally with added perlite or sand to enhance drainage.
How do I propagate Echinocereus triglochidiatus?
Propagation can be done through seeds or offsets. For seeds, sow in a well-draining mix; for offsets, allow them to callous before planting.
What temperature range is ideal for the Mojave Mound Cactus?
This cactus prefers temperatures between 70-100°F (21-38°C) during the day and can tolerate cooler nights down to 30°F (-1°C).
Is Echinocereus triglochidiatus toxic to pets?
No, this cactus is non-toxic to pets and children, but its spines can cause irritation.
When should I repot my Mound Hedgehog Cactus?
Repot every 2-3 years or when it outgrows its pot, using fresh cactus mix.
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