Echinocereus laui aka Echinocereus Laui

Echinocereus laui is a small cactus in the family Cactaceae. It grows in eastern Sonora and Chihuahua, Mexico. Its range lies along the western Sierra Madre Occidental. The species has a small range but can be abundant locally. It grows on rocky outcrops across volcanic slopes, from moderate to steep. These sites lie in grassland and oak woodland. They stand about 4,856–5,906 feet [1,480–1,800 metres] above sea level. Kew also places it in desert or dry shrubland.

This cactus branches from its base and forms small clumps. A clump can develop as many as 20 stems. Each upright, round stem reaches about 0.33 feet [0.10 metres] tall. Stems measure up to 0.13 feet [0.04 metres] across. They have 14–16 low ribs, divided into small tubercles. Dense spines hide much of the stem surface. The short, white radial spines look like soft bristles. Four longer central spines spread outward or project from each cluster. These range from ruby red to reddish brown. They reach about 0.10 feet [0.03 metres] long.

Flowers appear near the stem tips from March to April. Plants can bloom while still young and produce many flowers. Each bloom forms a narrow funnel with a long, hairy tube. The flowers range from deep pink to violet and last well. They measure about 0.10–0.20 feet [0.03–0.062 metres] long. Their width reaches 0.13–0.24 feet [0.04–0.072 metres]. The round fruits are brownish green. Wool and thin brown spines cover their surface.

In cultivation, this cactus needs full sun and good drainage. Strong light helps it form a dense cover of spines. Give it an airy spot during summer. Water well during hot weather, but avoid excess moisture. Too much water can cause rot. Keep it cool, bright, and fully dry through winter. This winter rest helps support regular flowering. LLIFLE describes it as easy to grow under these conditions. It reports brief cold tolerance around 23°F [−5°C], perhaps lower. That does not establish a full outdoor hardiness range.

In mild climates, it can grow outdoors in soil that drains well. Its small clumps, coloured spines, and large flowers provide garden interest. Growers usually raise it from seed. Basal branching also allows propagation from cuttings. The supplied sources give no evidence about edible uses or toxicity.