Name
Classifications and Characteristics
| Plant Division | Angiosperms (Flowering Seed Plants) |
|---|---|
| Plant Growth Form | Shrub |
| Lifespan (in Singapore) | Perennial |
| Mode of Nutrition | Autotrophic |
| Plant Shape | Rounded |
| Maximum Height | 5 cm to 8 cm |
Biogeography
| Native Distribution | Mexico |
|---|---|
| Native Habitat | Terrestrial |
| Preferred Climate Zone | Desert / Arid |
| Local Conservation Status | Non-native (Horticultural / Cultivated Only) |
| CITES Protection | True |
Description and Ethnobotany
| Growth Form | Cactus with a globose form. |
|---|---|
| Foliage | The spines are modified leaves. It has 16-18 thin, white radial spines (1-5 mm long) which are arranged in a radial pattern. There are 1-2 thick, grey-brown central spines (5-8 mm long) which have dark brown to black tips. |
| Stems | Globose stem is slightly depressed at the top. It lacks latex and has white wool in the axils. |
| Flowers | Rose-red flowers are composed of about 15 oblong petals with pointed tips. The petals are bright rose-red with a darker stripe down the middle. The flowers are arranged in a circle near the top of the cactus. |
| Habitat | This species occurs in open, grassy areas. |
| Cultivation | This species requires well-drained potting mix. |
Plant Care and Propagation
| Light Preference | Full Sun |
|---|---|
| Water Preference | Little Water |
| Propagation Method | Division |
Floral (Angiosperm)
| Flower Texture(s) | Smooth |
|---|---|
| Flower Grouping | Cluster / Inflorescence |
| Flower Location | Terminal |
| Flower Symmetry | Radial |
| Individual Flower Shape | Campaulate / Bell-shaped |
Image Repository
Others
| Master ID | 31502 |
|---|---|
| Species ID | 5899 |
| Flora Disclaimer | The information in this website has been compiled from reliable sources, such as reference works on medicinal plants. It is not a substitute for medical advice or treatment and NParks does not purport to provide any medical advice. Readers should always consult his/her physician before using or consuming a plant for medicinal purposes. |
