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Echinocereus pectinatus

Echinocereus pectinatus (Scheidw.) Engelm.

Rainbow Cactus

Cactaceae (Cactus Family)

Synonym(s):

USDA Symbol: ecpe

USDA Native Status: L48 (N)

A low, cylindrical cactus girdled from top to bottom by bands of colorful spines, pink, gray, pale yellow, brown, or white; flowers pink, rose, lavender, or yellow.

The banded colors of spines explain the name Rainbow Cactus. The strikingly beautiful flowers seem far too large for the plant.