Xerophyte

Habit

It is a low growing cactus species forming clusters or cushions from a large tap root.

Central Spines

0 to 7, blacker and pointing upwards. Larger at the base about 5 mm long.

Flowers

The flowers varying from salmon-pink to carmine, up to 8,5 cm long, often larger than the plants itself.

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 white, up to 4 mm long, diaphanous, pectinate, appressed against the stem, bristle-like, flexible, forming a close network that shades and almost hides the body.

Areoles

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