Echinocereus rigidissimus v. rubrispinus is a beautiful, usually solitary, member of the "Hedgehog Cactus" family. Grows somewhat slowly to a column of 8" in height with reddish to pink pectinate (comb-like) clusters of spines that are mostly flattened against the body of the plant. Beautiful deep rose flowers to 4" in diameter with white centers appear in late spring. Requires cactus soil with extra drainage as is provided by the addition of extra pumice or perlite. A beautiful and rare species well worth the careful culture required for a healthy specimen. Requires care in watering; water sparingly in cold winter months and refrain from watering in times of high humidity. Water thoroughly when soil is dry to the touch, but make sure soil does not remain waterlogged. Bright light to full sun. Echinocerei can be quite cold tolerant, but only if the water has been gradually reduced towards the end of summer, allowing them to become gradually acclimated to cold temperatures as happens in their native habitat. This cold tolerance is accomplished by the gradual reduction of water content and shrinking of the very cells of the plant. Water uptake is rapid in the spring, and the plant soon assumes its previous dimensions. Best to give protection from frost to prevent prossible scarring.