This genus is native to the southern United States and Mexico. Its name comes from the Greek “echinos” (spiny) and the Latin “cereus” , which means candle. It includes about a hundred species, with innumerable varieties and forms. They grow stunning, long-lasting flowers characterised by bright colours. Echinocereus davisii is the tiniest Echinocereus species and can already bloom when it measures just over half a centimetre. They are fairly easy to grow, but for some species, there are some specific conditions to be met. The fruits of some species of Echinocereus are edible and are also used to make jams.
