Xerophyte

Description

Epithelantha ilariaeSN|12641]]SN|18603]] is a controversial species very similar in its morphology to Epithelantha bokeiSN|18603]]SN|12641]], but many characteristics separate the two species. The most important characteristic which distinguishes E. ilariae from E. bokei is the lack of evident denticles on the spine margins, which is a peculiar characteristic of E. bokei.

Stem

Flattened, regularly shaped, larger than 6 cm.

Radial Spines

30-52, distributed on 2-3 superposed layers. The spines have an elliptic section, instead of an applanate section as in E. bokei. The spine epidermis of E. ilariae is evidently waxy-white, especially during the juvenile phase, in E. bokei it is only slightly waxy or not at all.Flowers The flowering period of E. bokei is March/July, whilst the flowering period of E. ilariae is March/October.