Xerophyte

Five species make up the genus Austrocactus that all hail from southern South America as the name implies (austro = southern). This genus is relatively small with the largest species reaching a height of 24inches (60cm) and the rest smaller. They can be either branching or solitary and have tuberculate ribs featuring moderate spination. Flowers range in color from yellow to pink to red and feature spiny/wooly floral tubes. Fruits are round and dry containing black or brown seeds. This species occurs in Argentina and Chile.