Xerophyte

Habit

Solitary or forming clusters or cushions from a large tap root, it is a very variable specie with several different forms.

Central Spines

Usually absent.

Flowers

The flowers occur in many colours, varying from yellow to orange and red, up to 8,5 cm long.

Ribs

Approximately 17, more or less notched, forming tubercles.

Stem

Ovoid, greyish-green, dull green or brown-purplish-green, up to 8 cm tall and 5 cm in diameter.

Radial Spines

16-22, Short, somewhat pectinated and appressed against the stem, bristle-like, flexible, whitish, 4 mm long. Forming a network that shades the body.

Areoles

Yellowish-white, somewhat sunken, about 5 mm apart.