Some facts about Claret cup cactus, Echinocereus triglochidiatus:
Appearance:
It's a mounding cactus that forms clumps with cylindrical stems, reaching up to 10 inches tall and 4 inches in diameter.
Spines:
The cactus can be densely spined or almost completely spineless, with spines varying in color (white, yellow, gray, or black) and shape (straight, curved, contorted).
Flowers:
The most striking feature is the showy, funnel-shaped flowers boasting bright scarlet red to orange-red petals, up to 3 inches in diameter. They have a thick nectar chamber in the center, attracting hummingbirds.
Blooming:
This cactus is a reliable bloomer, typically flowering in spring to early summer.
Fruits:
The flowers are followed by juicy, edible fruits that can be green, yellow-green, pink, or red.
Habitat:
Echinocereus triglochidiatus is native to the southwestern United States and northern Mexico. It thrives in various habitats, from low deserts to rocky slopes, scrub, and mountain woodlands.
Cold tolerance:
This cactus is surprisingly cold-hardy, tolerating temperatures down to around -10°F (depending on the variety).
Official cactus:
Echinocereus triglochidiatus is the official state cactus of Colorado.
