Xerophyte

Central Spines

Usually 1 central spine, to 25 mm long, not hooked or curved, similar to radial spines. No Central spine for the var. uberiformis.

Description

At first solitary, but clustering very young and forming dense clusters to 15 cm or more broad. With 10-30(-50) braches. The variegata (variegated form) has tubercles stripped in pale yellow and green.

Roots

Thick taproots, large in upper portion.

Tubercles

Very long soft and flaccid 12-25 ? 5-8 mm. the axil is sparsely wooly, without bristles.

Flowers

Very large for this genus, 4-6 cm long, 4.5-6 cm wide with bright yellow petals in May-July; stigmas yellow.

Stem

Spherical, green, 3-6(12 cm) cm in diameter, up to 10 tall. Without latex.

Radial Spines

About 8 to 10 for 12 to 20 mm long white-yellowish or brown.

Fruits

Yellowish to green.