Xerophyte

Central Spines

(0-)1 to 3 blackish, up to 2,5 cm long;

Description

The normal Copiapoa molliculaSN|1424]]SN|1424]] is a lovely small geophyte cactus usually solitary or forming small clumps. The variegated form (Copiapoa molliculaSN|1424]]SN|1424]] f. variegata) has sectors, patches, shades or stripes with yellow colours, even distinct shades of green. Plants with variegated stems are often attractive and highly prized. A very few variegated plants sprout unpredictably time by time among normal green seedling and are very rare. Variegated plants are also found in habitat even though with low frequency, but these plants are particularly sensitive and rarely survive in the harsh environment of their native land.

Roots

Heavy underground root.

Flowers

Yellow, campanulate, about 3 cm long and grow from the centre of the white wool at the apex.

Ribs

10 to 14 ribs

Stem

Grey-green and yellow, thick, soft, flat to globular 7,5 cm in diameter. The apex is woolly.

Radial Spines

5 to 9 (sometime absent)