Echinocactus grusonii (Hildmann 1891) Undoubtedly, this is one of the most popular plants among enthusiasts, further enhanced by its rapid growth and ease of cultivation. It is found in virtually every collection, yet paradoxically, it is seriously threatened in its original habitat due to overexploitation and environmental degradation. More Information Etymology: Dedicated to Hermann Gruson, (1821-1895) a German engineer based in Magdeburg and cultivator of cacti.Place of Origin: Northern Mexico and southern United States.