Xerophyte

Habit

It is a small highly branching cactus that forms crowded clumps.

Description

Pediocactus sileriSN|18235]]SN|18235]] f. monstruosa (a.k.a. Utahia sileriSN|18237]]SN|18237]] f. monstruosa) is a tiny highly branching cactus with very short bristly spines that forms dense oddlly shaped clumps. This form reproduces vegetatively and it is possible to find clones with different degrees of monstrosity or deformity. It is a very rare cactus and most difficult to grow on its own roots. It is better to graft it on a suitable grafting stock.

Note

This is a very distinctive plant even without flowers. It’s very different from the common spiny form. Maybe we can call it a freak?

Spines

Very short, thin, bristly, spreading.

Stem

Globose or elomgate up to 6 cm tall freely branching and retaining the basic spherical structure with spiralling tubercled ribs.

Fruits

Not seen.

Areoles

Large, white and felty, they are arranged geometrically and contrast with the stem.