The single dark central spine, which may be absent, is straight or slightly curved and lightens with age, measuring 1.2 to 3.8 cm (0.47 to 1.50 in) long.

[6] The flesh of the plant is edible, and Native American groups consumed the stems and fruits.

fendleri, Kuenzler's hedgehog cactus' (formerly Echinocereus kuenzleri), is rare and federally listed as an endangered species of the United States.

[8] Kuenzler's hedgehog cactus differs from other varieties of the species by having large flowers, reaching 11 centimeters long and magenta in color, and white spines.

[9] First described as Cereus fendleri by George Engelmann in 1849, the species was named to honor German botanist August Fendler.