Claret Cup Blossoms
Also known as: Hedgehog Cactus, Mojave Mound Cactus, Kingcup Cactus, That Spiny Thing You’ll Regret Touching
This cactus is the prom queen of the desert—short, spiky, and radiant in red. The flowers look like someone dipped a shot glass in cherry Kool-Aid and dared it to grow on a porcupine.
It thrives in dry, rocky places where most plants say, “Nope,” and curl up to die. Not the Claret Cup. This one digs in, throws shade (literally none), and blooms like it’s starring in a spring fashion show for hummingbirds.
Why do I love it?
Because it’s tough, it’s gorgeous, and it only stabs you if you get too close, which is also how I feel about some relatives.
Couplet:
It blooms like a torch in the desert's embrace,
Just don't try to hug it—it'll scratch up your face.
Claret Cup Blossoms
Also known as: Hedgehog Cactus, Mojave Mound Cactus, Kingcup Cactus, That Spiny Thing You’ll Regret Touching
This cactus is the prom queen of the desert—short, spiky, and radiant in red. The flowers look like someone dipped a shot glass in cherry Kool-Aid and dared it to grow on a porcupine.
It thrives in dry, rocky places where most plants say, “Nope,” and curl up to die. Not the Claret Cup. This one digs in, throws shade (literally none), and blooms like it’s starring in a spring fashion show for hummingbirds.
Why do I love it?
Because it’s tough, it’s gorgeous, and it only stabs you if you get too close, which is also how I feel about some relatives.
Couplet:
It blooms like a torch in the desert's embrace,
Just don't try to hug it—it'll scratch up your face.