Description: A pretty
little species, with a low thick flat to cylindrical stem. The dark
green, body slowly ramifies from the base to form clusters, size
depending on the clone. Felted areoles line the edges of 25 to 30 ribs.
Spines: 7 or more, brownish, radial spines that grow to 5 cm. Old
plant begins to produce very long spines up to 25 cm (or more)
Flowers: Slender Pink to reddish-brown, orange or yellow with a
usual clearer centre, approx. 6.0cm. long, 5.0cm. diameter. Blooms are
produced in spring and remain open for about three days.
Root: tap root.
Cultivation: It is a summer grower
species that offers no cultivation
difficulties. Water regularly in summer (but do not
overwater ) Needs a large pot to accommodate a large
root system. Use a very draining and porous substrate,
since it's natural habitat is in volcanic soil, it has adapted to more
acidic conditions; keep rather dry in winter.
It is quite frost resistant if kept dry (hardy to -5° C)
Outside full sun or afternoon shade, inside needs bright light, and some
direct sun.
Propagation: Propagate by seed
or shoots. |