Rainbow Hedgehog Cactus of Arizona

Foraging & Eco Skills Edu @WaggleBee

Meet the Arizona Rainbow Hedgehog Cactus! This is a relatively small cactus, at several inches up to about 1.5 ft height range, with a green stem covered in a shear of white spines that are comb-like. The spines not only give it character but also color! In fact, the name rainbow cactus comes from the alternating colorful bands that can occur in certain individuals of this species. The sample I show today has some red and white coloration to it. Another great thing about this cactus is that it has edible fruits, which follow beautiful large flowers.

If you want to learn more about foraging the fruit of the rainbow hedgehog cactus, check out my foraging video here:

TBA

#desert #plants #foraging

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⚠️ Disclaimer & Cautions:
Please take caution when foraging and exploring new plants. There are some extremely poisonous and harmful plants out there, and some that closely mimic those that are edible. You should always always always check multiple sources to properly identify a plant and before assuming you can eat a plant or any of its parts, and always try it out in small quantities first to ensure you can handle it or to provide yourself time to get used to it. I do not take responsibility for any injury caused by exploring or consuming plants or survival techniques discussed in this video or on this channel. The content is for entertainment and information purposes only, but the viewer is responsible for checking sources and taking his own precautions in the field. Different people respond differently to internal and external exposure to foods and chemicals and some people have allergic reactions. Please consider these precautions so that your adventures can remain fun and free from harm!

❗️As you explore, please remember to practice extreme respect for fragile wild places. Do not take more than you need. Do not attempt to remove entire plants. Pick from multiple plants rather than just one. Leave food for the other animals who depend on it for survival! Provide an early buffer on foraging so animals can access their food source first. Leave a little for late season foragers, as well. Choose not to forage at sensitive locations or times of the year. Spit out or disperse seeds before leaving to propagate growth of important native plants.