Xerophyte

Description

This is the crested form of Aztekium ritteriSN|4248]]SN|4248]]i a very rare and extremely slow growing cactus from Mexico seldom exceeding 5 cm in width with rounded ribs. This is one of the more famous crested cacti sought after by cactus impassioned, but very slow growing and seldom available.

Spines

1 to 3 small, weak, often missing from the youngest areoles. The older areoles form a more or less continuous line along the centre of the true ribs.

Stem

The stem is crossed by numerous horizontal furrows. Between these true ribs are small secondary ribs, reaching about halfway up the plant body. The colour of the younger growth is a rather pale yellowish green or purplish, merging to grey-green on the lower, older growth. The crested apex of the cactus contains a some white wool.