Xerophyte

Description

Ariocarpus kotschoubeyanusSN|2127]]SN|2127]] (a.k.a. Star Rock) is a well known flat geophytic cactus that produce small star-shaped rosettes. They in most cases don't reach more than only a few centimetres above the ground. The crested form Ariocarpus kotschoubeyanusSN|2127]]SN|2127]] f. cristatus - despite to its beauty - is still very rare and sought after by collectors, for its unique features.

Roots

Has a large tap root below the surface of the compost.

Tubercles

The tubercles are deltoid dark olive green with no spines and lie flat on the soil surface. They are more long than wide, closely packed and divergent, sharply angled apically.

Flowers

These plants have a woolly crown, from which emerge bright pink-violet flowers up to 2,5-5 cm, 2 times wider than long when fully expanded. Flowers are diurnal and last for 3 to 4 days.

Blooming Season

Mid-September onwards.

Stem

Fan shaped, flattened on top, depressed centrally.

Areoles

The tubercles forms a central longitudinal areolar groove extending to the tips on the adaxial surfaces of the tubercles, woolly, 1-3 mm wide, 5-10 mm long.