Since hedgehog cactus usually grows under shade, it is less likely to escape fire than species that grow on open sites with little surrounding vegetation. Specific information concerning the effect of fire on hedgehog cactus is not available in the literature. Hedgehog cactus is probably killed by most fires. Succulents in general rarely actually burn, but spines may ignite and carry flames to the apex. The cactus body may scorch and blister without pyrolysis, leaving undamaged parts of the plant alive.
Mortality results from death of the photosynthetic tissue and underlying phloem and cambium.
Cacti may appear completely scorched with no green tissue visible, yet may survive fire. However, fire can cause delayed mortality, which may not occur for months or even years. Removal of the spines may also increase subsequent herbivory. Survival of succulents depends primarily on protection of the apical meristem. Endangered species of Utah.