Coryphantha cornifera var. echinus (Big Size)

🌿 The Coryphantha cornifera var. echinus, commonly known as the Beehive Cactus or Pineapple Cactus, is a member of the Cactaceae family native to the rocky limestone hillsides of northern Mexico. This compact, globular cactus forms a distinctive beehive shape with tubercles arranged in tight spiral patterns, making it a fascinating specimen for intermediate to advanced collectors. The variety echinus is particularly prized for its robust spines and reliable blooming habit. Fun fact: the name "cornifera" comes from Latin meaning "horn-bearing," referring to the prominent central spines that can reach up to 3 centimetres in length.
FOLIAGE AND GROWTH HABIT
This cactus grows in a solitary, spherical to slightly cylindrical form that slowly expands outward rather than upward. The body is covered in pronounced tubercles that spiral around the stem, each topped with an areole bearing multiple radial spines and one to four stout central spines. The epidermis ranges from blue-green to grey-green, often developing a slightly glaucous coating that helps protect it from intense sunlight. The spines themselves vary from pale yellow to amber-brown, sometimes darkening at the tips, creating a beautiful textural contrast against the body.
FLOWER DETAILS
Mature specimens produce stunning funnel-shaped flowers that emerge from the crown in late spring through summer. The blooms are typically bright yellow with occasional peachy-orange tones near the centre, measuring 4 to 6 centimetres across when fully open. While not fragrant, the flowers have a silky, almost translucent quality that catches light beautifully. Each flower lasts only one to two days, but the plant often produces multiple blooms over several weeks when conditions are right. To encourage flowering, ensure the cactus experiences a cool, dry winter rest period with temperatures around 10 to 13 degrees Celsius and reduce watering to almost nothing during these months.
CARE INSTRUCTIONS

🌞 Light: Full sun to very bright light for at least 6 hours daily. Tolerates partial afternoon shade in extremely hot climates but blooms best with maximum sun exposure.
💧 Water: Water deeply but infrequently during spring and summer, allowing soil to dry completely between waterings. Reduce to once monthly in autumn and almost none in winter. Use the soak-and-dry method, watering at the soil level.
🌡️ Humidity: Prefers low humidity between 20% to 40%. Excellent tolerance for dry indoor air.
🪴 Soil: Fast-draining cactus mix with at least 50% mineral content such as pumice, perlite, or coarse sand. Add fine gravel for extra drainage.
🏺 Potting: Terracotta or unglazed ceramic pot with drainage holes, shallow but wide enough to accommodate root spread. Repot every 3 to 4 years in early spring.
🌱 Growth rate: Very slow growing. Expect 1 to 2 centimetres diameter increase per year. Can reach 10 to 15 centimetres wide and 12 to 18 centimetres tall at maturity after 10 to 15 years.
👩‍🌾 Fertilizing: Feed once in spring and once in early summer with diluted cactus fertilizer at half strength. No feeding in autumn or winter.
🐾 Pet friendly: Yes, non-toxic to cats and dogs, though the sharp spines present a physical hazard. Keep out of reach to prevent injuries.

WHERE TO PUT IT
This cactus thrives in south-facing windows, sunrooms, or heated greenhouses where it can receive maximum direct sunlight. It works beautifully in collections displayed on sunny windowsills, in dedicated cactus gardens, or as a specimen plant on a bright desk or shelf. The big size makes it suitable as a standalone feature in a minimalist setting. Avoid placing it in bathrooms, kitchens, or other high-humidity areas, and keep it away from drafty entryways or air conditioning vents that create temperature fluctuations.
RARITY ASSESSMENT
sought-after