Beehive Cactus
Escobaria vivipara
Last reviewed: June 2026
Light
full sun
Water
low
Size
2"–8" H × 2"–8" W
Bloom
May, Jun
Native to
MN
Pollinators
bees, beetles
Browse plants for this ecoregion
Beehive cactus is a small, rounded succulent that forms tight clusters of spiny stems close to the ground. It produces bright pink to magenta flowers in late spring and early summer, followed by small red fruits.
In an HOA neighborhood
Beehive Cactus takes more care to keep looking intentional in a front yard. Maintenance level: low. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.
Works well in: backyard only.
- Sharp spines present safety concerns near walkways
- May be viewed as too exotic for traditional neighborhoods
Wildlife value
The colorful flowers attract native bees and beetles during its May-June bloom period. Birds may feed on the small red fruits that develop after flowering.
Native range data from the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists. Pollinator and host plant associations compiled from GBIF, iNaturalist, and published ecological literature.
Does Beehive Cactus fit your yard? Open it in Pollinator Patch to check it against your sun, soil, and HOA-conscious filters.