Banana cactus (Echinocereus enneacanthus, F.A.Wislizenus, Mem. Tour N. Mexico: 111 (1848))

Family: Cactaceae

Author: Engelm.

Bibliography: F.A.Wislizenus, Mem. Tour N. Mexico: 111 (1848)

Year: 1848

Status: accepted

Rank: species

Genus: Echinocereus

Vegetable: False

Observations: SW. Texas to NE. Mexico

Description

The Banana cactus, known scientifically as Echinocereus enneacanthus, is a captivating member of the Cactaceae family. First documented by F.A. Wislizenus in 1848 in his work “Mem. Tour N. Mexico,” this intriguing cactus was later classified by the author Engelm.

This fascinating species thrives in the arid landscapes stretching from southwestern Texas to northeastern Mexico. The Banana cactus is cherished for its robust resilience and striking appearance, adapting seamlessly to the harsh conditions of its native region.

Characterized by its elongated stems, which often resemble the shape of bananas, Echinocereus enneacanthus stands out with its vibrant blooms. These flowers, generally ranging in color from pink to magenta, burst to life in the spring, adding a splash of color to the otherwise subdued desert palette.

Despite its hardy nature, the Banana cactus requires specific conditions to flourish. It thrives best in well-drained soils with plenty of sunlight, mimicking its natural environment. Its ability to store water makes it well-suited for survival in drought-prone areas, but it does benefit from occasional watering in cultivation.

The Banana cactus is not just a delight for the eyes; it plays a crucial role in its ecosystem. It provides habitat and nourishment for various desert-dwelling creatures, contributing to the biodiversity of its native regions.

In the realm of horticulture, Echinocereus enneacanthus has become a popular choice for enthusiasts who appreciate its unique form and vibrant flowers. Whether grown in a desert garden or a specialized cactus collection, the Banana cactus offers a glimpse into the remarkable adaptability and beauty of desert flora.

Common Names

Spa: alicoche, pitaya, órgano-pequeño alicoche real
Eng: banana cactus, cob cactus, prostrate hedgehog cactus, purple pitaya, strawberry cactus, strawberry hedgehog cactus, pitaya, smallspine pitaya
Swe: tuvad kägelkaktus
En: Banana cactus, Prostrate hedgehog cactus, Purple pitaya, Cob cactus, Strawberry cactus, Strawberry hedgehog cactus, Pitaya, Smallspine pitaya
Fi: Kierrepiirikaktus
Es: Pitaya, Alicoche, Órgano-pequeño Alicoche Real
Sv: Tuvad kägelkaktus

Synonyms

Distribution

• Mexico Northeast (native)
• Texas (native)

Additional Images

Leaf

Taken Oct 12, 2015 by EOL − Antonio Moreno Talamantes (cc-by-nc)

Taken Jan 1, 1900 by EOL − Amante Darmanin from Malta (cc-by)

Taken Oct 12, 2015 by EOL − Antonio Moreno Talamantes (cc-by-nc)

Taken Aug 2, 2020 by Lisa Velazquez (cc-by-sa)

Taken Oct 11, 2021 by Moreno Yulma (cc-by-sa)

Habit

Taken Apr 25, 2014 by EOL − CH Hemphill (cc-by-nc)

Taken Mar 31, 2014 by EOL − CH Hemphill (cc-by-nc)

Taken Dec 20, 2014 by EOL − Kenneth Bader (cc-by-nc)

Taken Jun 20, 2013 by EOL − Carlos Velazco (cc-by-nc)

Taken Oct 16, 2015 by EOL − raymangel19 (cc-by-nc)

Flower

Taken May 2, 2014 by EOL − Cooper Wyatt (cc-by-nc)

Taken Dec 30, 2014 by EOL − Ron Savage (cc-by-nc-sa)

Taken Apr 4, 2020 by 𝑩𝒓𝒚𝒂𝒏𝒕 𝑭𝒍𝒐𝒘𝒆𝒓𝒔 (cc-by-sa)

Taken May 28, 1985 by Daniel Barthelemy (cc-by-nc)

Taken Nov 24, 2021 by Mason Begay (cc-by-sa)

Bark

Taken Jul 22, 2019 by Varvara (cc-by-sa)

Taken Jul 22, 2019 by Varvara (cc-by-sa)

Taken Apr 8, 2021 by pepepirañaPiks (cc-by-sa)

Sources

• WFO (No URL)
• GBIF (https://www.gbif.org/species/3084109)
• POWO (http://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:132350-1)
• PlantNet (https://identify.plantnet.org/species/the-plant-list/Echinocereus enneacanthus Engelm.)

Specifications

Growth habit>: Shrub

Growth