Xerophyte

Habit

This cultivars is easily grown into small clumps or mounds, and tends to offset more abundantly than the normal form. Almost always monstrous specimens are grafted on stronger species, called the stock, that can be any number of different columnar cactus.

Description

The typical Mammillaria luethyiSN|31284]]SN|11876]] is a tiny plant, but by far one of the most spectacular members of its genus, distinctive when not in flower because of the 'spination' (if it can be called that!) at the tips of the tubercles, and even more magnificent in flower. It is solitary or branching in several stems, mostly beneath the ground.

Monstrous Form

The monstrous form (Mammillaria luethyi f. monstruosaSN|11876]]SN|31284]]) is an odd plant that forms bumped (or sometime crested) shapes, it is very colourful, the epidermis varies from yellowish-green to orange-red, to purple-black and contrasts with the large white felt-like areoles and new purple or greenish growth. It is possible to find clones with different degrees of monstrosity or deformity. Maybe we can call it a freak? Despite to its beauty it is still very rare and sought after by collectors, for its unique features.