Acharagma - February 2017

Acharagma is a tiny genus of just two species of small cacti from northern Mexico. We are including them along with Escobaria this month because they started out being described as members of that genus. Over time they were separated out in large part due to groves on the tubercules that the rest of Escobaria lack. This separation has since been vindicated by DNA study. It turns out Acharagma is not closely related to Escobaria at all, and is instead a close relative of Lophophora (Peyote) and Obregonia!

While all plants in this group are relatively small, many can form good sized clumps in time (much like Mammillaria). Some of the variation between species include having globular plants and more cylindrical, upright plants. Flowers vary from yellow to pink. Some species are covered in dense white spines while others are more sparsely covered, allowing the green body of the plant to shine through. A large number of species produce tap roots. Cultivation is similar to Mammillaria and other small cacti. While some members of these genera are renowned for their cold tolerance, keep in mind many species come from warm climates. Of course that isn't much of an issue for us in California, but anyone growing them in cold climates needs to make sure they pick the cold tolerant species. Most species take general cactus care and do well in smaller pots, and so make nice additions to any collection.

-- Kyle Williams

​Photo in Cactus Chronicle:  Acharagma roseana

Adenia - August 2018, July 2011, May 2009 & 2007

Adenia is entirely unrelated to Adenium, and is a member of the Passiflora or Passion Flower family. Most of the collectable Adenias have large bases that support climbing stems or branches. In habitat they are often found in brush, with the branches scrambling up through brush, or alternately growing in a open area, entirely covered by a sprawling mass of live and dead stems.

In cultivation the sprawling stems are regularly pruned to keep the plant good looking in a pot (as well as  transportable). All of the Adenia are cold sensitive, particularly when young, and should never be exposed to cold and damp. Collectable species include Adenia globosa, with a green spherical body, resembling in texture and color a giant avocado.

Another wonderful spiny species is Adenia spinosa. In this species the body is gray brown at the base, fading to an olive green on the upper surface. A forest of dense spiny branches comes from the caudex. Adenia glauca has a base much like an Adenium, before tapering to a vine like stem. 

-- Tom Glavich June 2004

Adenium - August 2016, June 2012, August 2009, May 2007

Adenium is a member of the Apocynaceae, and a relative of Pachypodium, Oleander, and Vinca. The Apocynaceae is home to many showy flowering plants used for ornamental and medicinal purposes. Oleander is a staple of much of Southern California Gardening; Vinca is grown around the world.

Adeniums are native to Africa and very large clumps of Adenium obesum can be found in selected areas of Tanzania. The plants found in sub-Saharan Africa typically have think stems and an enlarged base and root system known as the caudex. Propagation occurs most successfully from tip cuttings (about 5 inches from the growing point of a branch) although many wholesalers now generate new crops from seeds.

Adeniums are relatively easy to grow if you follow a couple of important rules. Adenimums should receive absolutely no moisture from November through March when they go dormant Resume watering when you observe leaves emerging from existing branches. They should also be kept warm during this period of time either by placing them in a green house or next to a house wall that receives heat from a climate control system. Some growers place their plants in their garages in late fall to force dormancy, and protect them from cold and damp. During the growing season, Adeniums require good fertilizer, and lots of water. Adenium are being hybridized for the caudex shape and for flower color. Hobbyists seek out and treasure large caudexs on the Adenimums that they exhibit.

Adenium somalense is another outstanding caudiciform plant found in an area from Somlia down through Kenya and Tanzania. The leaves of this plant are greenish with a white vein down the middle of the leaf. The flowers are smaller than those for Adenium obesum and are pinkish to white at the base of the blossom.

Adenium arabicum is another species that produces a large caudex and a plethora of lovely pink blossoms that rival any of the other plants found in this genus. You can distinguish Adenium obesum from arabicum by the texture of the bottom of arabicum leaves (it has a feathery feel to it).

Photos in Cactus Chronicle: Adenium arabicum, Adenium somalense, Adenium obesum (Tanzanian habitat photo - S. Frieze)

References: G. Rowley, Caudiciform and Pachycaul Succulents

M. Dimmit, G. Josephs, D. Palzkill, Adenium: Sculptural Elegance, Floral Extravagance

Tom Glavich April 2003 -- Edited by Steve Frieze, June 2012

Adromischus -  February 2010

Adromischus is closely related to the genera Cotyledon and Tylecodon. There are 29 recognized species of Adromischus all found in southern Africa. When grown in cultivation they require at least partial shade, especially in hotter climates. This plant forms clumping succulent rosettes and expands horizontally. Propagation occurs from stem or leaf cutting as well as from seed. Distinctive markings and colored leaves are characteristic of this genus.

​Steve Frieze, February 2010

Photo in Cactus Chronicle:

Adromischus trigynus

Aeonium - February 2016, March 2010

Aeonium belongs to the family Crassulaceae, one of the largest succulent plant families. All the species (with one exception) have the traditional rosette shape seen in most of the family. It is closely related to Crassula, Kalanchoe, Cotyledon, Tylecodon, Sedum, Echeveria, and Dudleya. The main distinguishing feature of Aeonium compared to other rosette forming genera is that most Aeonium have woody stems. There are Crassulaceae with woody stems that aren’t Aeonium, and Aeonium without woody stems, but generally the character works. Most Aeonium species are monocarpic, meaning that when a rosette flowers it dies, much like Agave and most Bromeliads. In a multibranched species like A. arboreum that’s no big deal since only a small number of branches flower in a given year. It is a big deal in the unbranched species like A. nobile or A. tabuliforme as flowering means the entire plant will soon die. However, thousands of dust-like seeds are usually produced, so you can grow your own replacements.

The vast majority of Aeonium species come from the Canary Islands, a group of islands off the coast of Morocco that belong to Spain. These islands have a Mediterranean climate very similar to that of coastal Southern California. This means the plants are adapted to a climate with cool wet winters and warm dry summers. This makes Aeonium one of the best choices for a succulent landscape as the plants can survive and even thrive purely on natural rainfall alone. Of course some supplementary water in the summer is appreciated by the plants. Frost is extremely rare in the Canary Islands (except on the mountains) so they may take damage if we get a frost in our area, but if the frost is light they should recover.

The most commonly cultivated species is A. arboreum, a shrubby species with long stems. The wild form of the species is green, but most people know it from the purple to black cultivars such as ‘Zwartkopf’ or ‘Cyclops’. Aeonium canariense is also extremely common. If you see a clumping plant with large rosettes that stays low to the ground then it is very likely this species. The other species very commonly encountered is A. haworthii a very densely shrubby species with small rosettes and very thin stems.

The species above are the big three that everyone thinks of when Aeonium is mentioned.  Aeonium nobile is a single rosette, stem-less species with rosettes 2-3’ across and leaves as thick or thicker than an Echeveria!  Aeonium urbicum has gray-green leaves and can reach 6’ high or more on an unbranched stem. Aeonium sedifolium is the smallest species with fat, oval shaped leaves with red stripes. Aeonium smithii is an oddball in having leaves and stems covered in wavy hairs. No discussion of Aeonium is complete without mentioning the show stopping A. tabuliforme. This is a stemless, unbranched species with an almost perfectly flat rosette with hundreds of leaves that can reach 2’ in diameter. It has a reputation for being hard to grow, but the only difficulty is that it is somewhat picky about having a summer dormancy period and is prone to rot if you insist on watering it in hot weather.

Greenovia is a small genus of just 2-4 species, also from the Canary Islands. It is very similar to Aeonium and has been considered part of the genus by some, though most botanists consider them distinct. The species look like a stemless Aeonium with blue green leaves. The most unusual feature of the genus, one that makes them instantly recognizable during the summer, is that leaves fold together into an egg or tulip shape when dormant. Care is similar to Aeonium, but make sure to keep them dry during the summer as they can rot if in their dormant period.

-Kyle Williams

Photos in Cactus Chronicle:

Aeonium sedifolium​, Aeonium tabuliforme, Greenovia aurea

Agave - November 2017, March 2014, May 2010, June 2009 & 2007

Agaves are one of, if not THE, most popularly grown succulents in California and the Southwest. It is hard to go down any street in our region without seeing at least one Agave americana, A. attenuata, A. potatorum, or a host of other species. They are easy to grow, come in a great variety of sizes and shapes, and most thrive on neglect. No wonder they are so popular! 

Agaves, like the Cacti, are entirely new world in origin, although many members have been naturalized around the world. Agaves are native to Southern North America, Mexico, Central America, Northern South America and the Caribbean. A few species are native to the deserts of Southern California. There are roughly 200 species of Agave and countless varieties and cultivars, with new species being discovered regularly. Some species are so common in cultivation that you practically can't give them away while others (such as A. albopilosa) command $100 or more for a small plant. 

Many people shy away from Agaves because they think the plants are all spiny giants that take over half of your yard. While species like A. americana and A. mapisaga certainly fit that description, there are lots of well behaved small to mid-sized species such as A. victoriae-reginae, A. potatorum, A. isthmenensis which can even be grown in a pot (hopefully so or we won't have any entries for our contest!). If stiff leaves and sharp spines are the problem then A. attenuata is perfect for you. Its leaves are so soft and lush that it would look right at home in a tropical planting instead of a xeric one. 

Agaves are easily grown from seed. Although many of members of this genus grow very large with age, they are particularly good looking as seedlings, and can be kept small for many years in pots. They thrive with regular feeding with any general purpose fertilizer. Their appearance is best when they are cleaned regularly, with debris removed from the leaves, and dead leaves removed to prevent insects from making homes. Many offset freely, and these offsets can be removed and repotted, giving a steady supply of small plants. Many growers keep the offsets, and dispose of the mother plant, keeping size, health and condition under control. Agave flowers are spectacular with spikes that sometimes reach as high as 20 feet. After flowering, the agave mother plant dies back.   

-- Kyle Williams

Photos in Cactus Chronicle --

Agave funkiana, The rare and expensive Agave albopilosa, Agave applanata 'Cream Spike'

Aloe - February 2017 & 2014, April 2013, January 2011, January-February 2009, February 2008 & 2007

    clusters- February 2017

Aloe is one of the most popular genera of succulents, especially in Southern California. In fact, Aloe vera may be the most widely cultivated succulent in the world, owing to its medicinal properties. Most species small herbs to shrubs, though some species (most notably A. dichotoma and A. barberae) can reach tree size. With over 500 species, and at least as many hybrids and cultivars, there is an Aloe for almost any situation and taste. Aloe species are native to most of the drier parts of Africa, including Madagascar, with a number reaching the Arabian Peninsula.

They are naturalized in every Mediterranean environment in the world, as well as some temperate and tropical regions. All but a few Aloes will grow readily in Southern California, either in the ground, or in pots. When in the ground they require minimal care, existing happily on only natural rainfall in most years. Summer growing species will appreciate some summer water. The sheer number of species and habitats make blanket statements on culture impossible, but most will thrive under the general care you give other succulents, so long as you know if you have a summer or winter grower.

Aloes combine interesting form and foliage with beautiful flowers. Most species have orange, yellow, or red flowers that are attractive to Sunbirds in their native Africa. In the Americas Hummingbirds regularly visit them. These birds are great at pollinating flowers and it isn't unusual to see fruit develop. Those looking for other colors can find species with white or even green flowers. Some species, such as A. tomentosa, even have hairy flowers!

Aloes are relatively pest free, though they are as susceptible to a mealybug outbreak as other succulents. Two serious pests of Aloe are rust and mites. Aloe rust, which produces red ringed spots black or brown spots on the leaves is a fungal disease, and can be controlled with any fungicide. Aloe galls are produced by the Aloe mite. These nearly invisible insects cause deformed flower stalks or leaves. The plant should be removed from all others, and is best destroyed, although eventual cure is possible with miticides.

This month our particular focus is on Aloe clusters in smaller pots (maximum pot size 6”). A cluster would simply be any Aloe plant with three or more heads on it. Obviously the pot size limitation means that smaller species would be best. One of the best choices for this category would be the colorful hybrid Aloe cultivars that have become popular in recent years. But of course any Aloe with multiple heads that can fit in a smaller pot are welcome.

-- Kyle Williams

Photos in Cactus Chronicle: Aloe x ‘Christmas Carol’, Aloe dorotheae, Aloe descoingsii

Anacampseros - January 2015, ​February 2010

Anacampseros is a genus that formerly housed a much larger number of species including the genus Avonia. Anacampseros are found in South African. They form clumping rosettes of succulent leaves. A small caudex forms as the plant ages. Flowers bloom periodically during the summer on sunny days only.

 Steve Frieze, February 2010

Anacampseros has around 30 species, primarily from South Africa and adjacent countries, with one species native to Australia.  For the most part the species tend to have fleshy rhomboid, or diamond shaped, leaves, very soft and fleshy stems, and have white hairs at the base of the leaves.  Some species are covered in a netting of thin white hairs that resemble a spider web! The most commonly grown species is probably A. rufescens, particularly the bright pink variegated form known as 'Sunrise'.  Anacampseros stays quite small and most tend to form clumps over time. One of the nicest aspects of this genus are its flowers. In most species they are large (for the size of the plant) bright pink and produced on long stalks.

-- Kyle Williams,  Special Thanks to Tom Glavich

January 2015

Photo in Cactus Chronicle: Anacampseros filimentosa

Ariocarpus - November 2017, October 2014 & 2011, May 2009

 Ariocarpus is one of the most prized and distinctive of all cacti genera. Ranging from Central and Northern Mexico to southern Texas, the genus has some of the most spectacular species of the entire family. Some succulent growers, who otherwise avoid cacti, make this genus their sole exception. There are collectors who collect nothing but Ariocarpus, and have hundreds of plants in their collections. Rare specimens can change hands for hundreds of dollars. Rare cultivars with unusual tubercles can be sold for even more, particularly in Japan. There is no denying that this single genus has generated a world wide cult of devotees. 

What about Ariocarpus has led to such popularity? There are several possible reasons. The form of the plant is nearly unique among cacti. Specifically, the tubercules are flattened and triangular, looking very much like succulent leaves. There is essentially no stem separate from the tubercules. Most of the species are quite distinct from each other, and all of them stay small enough to grow in pots. Additionally, they are very slow growing and, until the last 10-15 years, most were rarely seen for sale. Fortunately, a number of growers have been producing Ariocarpus in large numbers and supply is keeping up with demand. This allows people to collect them at a fair price and helps reduce the demand for wild dug plants. Today, the high priced Ariocarpus are usually unusual hybrids or variegates. 

Ariocarpus has an undeserved reputation as being difficult to grow. Nothing could be further from the truth. They are no more difficult to grow than many other central Mexican genera, and is well within the cultivation ability of even beginning growers. They come from a hot desert region that gets most of its rain in the summer, with the winter being quite dry. That is the exact opposite of our rainfall pattern, which has led some people to have trouble with them. Wet cool winters will make them rot prone, but it is the water that is the problem not the temperature. So during the rainy season just put them under a bench or somewhere dry that still gets bright light and don't water until spring. This "cool and wet is bad" advice goes for a lot of succulents, but most of the time the plants actually want warmer weather and people bring them inside for that reason (e.g. Euphorbia and Adenium). Don't do that with Ariocarpus. They come from a winter region with colder winters than ours, so they like the chilly weather. It truly is just the water that is the problem. 

With all of the fuss we make over this genus, it is important to remember that the plants have had important ethno-botanical uses. The tubercles contain a sticky mucilage, which was often used as glue to mend broken pots. A. kotschoubeyanus was boiled and used as a cure for rheumatism, and several species were used as ‘false peyote’ in religious ceremonies. Cultivation is not difficult, when the home environment of these plants is considered. They grow in mineral soils, with very little organic matter. They all have large tuberous roots. If they are protected from excess organic matter, particularly peat, and watered heavily only in hot weather, (but lightly throughout the summer growing season) good growth will result. There are six species (or more depending on if you want to divide A. retusus), several varieties, and a near infinite set of cultivars.    

 -- Kyle Williams 

Photos in Cactus Chronicle -- 

Ariocarpus retusus,  Ariocarpus Hybrid,  Ariocarpus kotschubianus

Asclepiad - October 2016

​   caudiciform - March 2011

The Asclepiadaceae or Milkweed family is a large family of succulent and non-succulent plants. This family has a wealth of forms rivaling that found in the Cactaceae, Crassulaceae and Euphorbiaceae families. This month we will focus on the caudiciform or tuberous rooted types, often a very popular plant choice in the exhibitions or shows. The genera Fockea, Brachystelma, Matalaea, Raphionacme, and some of the Cerepegia are all essentially vines. The caudex is typically submerged when found in habitat.

Fockea edulis is one of the most popular specimens. Easily grown from seed, this genus can form an impressive caudex in just a few years if it is left below soil level in ether a pot or other growing condition. Fockeas are relatively easy to grow, can thrive in unprotected conditions even when temperatures drop to near-freezing levels.

Another species that found in nurseries is Fockea crispa (revised to fockea capensis) that possesses a corrugated caudex and crinkly leaves. Fockea multiflora is still another popular species that has an upright conical caudex. Another less well-known Fockea, originating from South African is Fockea comaru. This plant is found in well-drained soil and partial sun. It produces a vine that grows to six feet in length.

The Fockea genus includes the following species not mentioned above: angustiflolia, sinuata, and tugelensis.

Raphionacme is a genus that is a bit more temperamental and is subject to rot. The most common species associated with this genus is Raphionacme flannagani.  Raphionacme procumbens, a species originating from South Africa requires well-drained soil and requires lots of sun to thrive. This species was first described in 1895 by Friedrich Richard Rudolf Schlechter.

Other species belonging to the genus Raphionacme include burkei, daronnii, elata, hirsuta, and vignei.

Ceropegia is a genus that originates from the Canary Islands and South Africa stretching to East India. The most common species of Ceropegia is woodii often sold as a house plant. It has heart shaped leaves and small tubers that form at the nodes of the vines. Ceropegia flowers have a tubular structure and assume a variety of colors including black, dark purple, green, and maroon. The many species belonging to the genus Ceropegia include occulta, odarata, campanulata, elegans, and occidentalis.

The last genus of the asclepiad type to be discussed in this article is Brachystelma. This plant usually has a round potato-like caudex. They are the most difficult of all the asclepiads to grow because of their fragile nature. The tendency to encounter rot is much more likely with this genus than with other asclepiads. The flowers are notoriously offensive in smell but extremely beautiful to observe. The advance or patient hobbyist will be richly rewarded by including this genus in their collection.

Brachystelma barberae is a dwarf herb whose leaves emerge from a submerged caudex. In its juvenile state the caudex is circular and as the plant matures the tuber becomes irregular in shape. All plant material on the surface of the plants are covered with coarse hairs and when damaged emit a watery sap.

Brachystelma foetidum is another species of this genus. Named for the offensive scent of the flower (foetidum means a manure-like in smell), this plant originates from Botswana, South African and Zimbabwe. The flower's appearance is dark brown or blackish.  Other species belonging to the genus Brachystelma include blepharanthera, circinnatum, constrictum, dyeri,montanum, togoense, and vahrmeijeri.

Photos in Cactus Chronicle: Brachystelma foetidum, Brachystelma barberae, Fockea crispa, Fockea comaru,

Fockea edulis, Ceropegia woodii, Raphionacme flanaganii, Raphionacme procumbens

 References:

G. Rowley, Caudiciform and Pachycaul Succulents

Sajeva and M. Costnzo, Succulents, The Illustrated Dictionary

Tom Glavitch, 2003 - Edited by Steve Frieze, 2011

Astrophytum - August 2016, September 2013, April 2010

Astrophytum are often one of the first cacti a collector starts with. They are available for pennies (or now quarters) in discount stores, groceries, and home centers. How can anyone resist the $1.29 special speckled Bishop’s Cap? More than a few show plants started out this way. At the same time, growing a perfect, 10 or 20 year old specimen plant is a challenge few growers can master. Fortunately, the genus offers rewards and surprises at every level between, making it one of the most popular of cacti at all levels.

Astrophytum are native to Southern Texas and Northern Central Mexico. They grow in a very arid region, with a porous mineral soil. One of the cultivation difficulties with Astrophytum is their tendency to split open from sudden increases in soil moisture level. To avoid this, keep them in a soil that is very quick to drain, and which has little organic matter. A mixture of pumice and gravel or very coarse sand, with only a little potting soil is best for these plants.

Astrophytum asterias is the smallest of the species. It is the hardest to grow well, prone to splitting if over watered.  Astrophytum capricorne is generally the longest spined species.  Astrophytum myriostigma is the well known ‘Bishops Cap.’

Astrophytum ornatum from Hidalgo can grow to 12 inches in diameter and three feet in height.

Photos in Cactus Chronicle:

Astrophytum capricorne exhibited by Laura Oster in the 2001 Inter-city Show,

Astrophytum asterias exhibited by Carol and Paul Maker in the 2001 Inter-city Show

References:

Anderson, E. The Cactus Family

Cullman, Gotz and Groner, The Encyclopedia of Cacti

Tom Glavich 2005 - Photos T. Nomer

Avonia - January 2015, February 2010

Avonia is a small group of roughly a dozen species that generally have very small, often scale-like leaves that envelop narrow stems. The most popular species is A. alstonii due to the beautiful caudex it forms. While the plant is quite small (big ones have a caudex a few inches across), the stout nature of the caudex and the numerous little green stems on top of it make the plant a must have for many succulent collectors. It produces attractive pink or white flowers, depending on the subspecies. While that is the best known species, it differs quite a bit from the other species seen in cultivation. The others, such as A. buderiana are tiny clumping oddities that have paper-like leaves. These papery leaves are so numerous it can sometimes make it hard to even tell if your plant is alive or dead! The flowers are much smaller in these species and no caudex is formed.

-- Kyle Williams, Special Thanks to Tom Glavich

Photo in Cactus Chronicle: Avonia alstonii ssp. quinaria

The genus Avonia originates in South African in Great Namaqualand and Bushmanland. Avonia form a woody caudex, approximately one inch high, which expands as the plant matures. Leaves emerge from the top of the caudex. This plant typically requires partial shade in cultivation and can be sensitive to frost or colder conditions. Although listed as a deciduous plant, many specimen retain their leaves all year long. Flowers are carmine red, white, or pink. Avonia flowers are self-fertilizing and can generate seed if you have only one plant.

Steve Frieze, February 2010

Photo in Cactus Chronicle: Avonia quinaria ssp. alstonii

Aztekium - May 2015

Aztekium contains three species of small, slow growing cacti that grow in highly inaccessible areas (though not inaccessible enough to stop poaching) of Nuevo Leon state in northeastern Mexico. The plants are quite small, averaging 1-4" diameter depending on the species. They stand out from other small globular cacti in having very unusual and attractive wrinkles covering the plant body. They grow in cracks and pockets of limestone and gypsum cliffs. They are said to prefer growing on north facing slopes, which is common for small cliff dwelling succulents of all types. Small plants eking out a living on the side of a cliff with a tiny area for roots is hard enough. Getting blasted all day by the intense desert sun in addition to that is just too much for little plants to bear.

If you were interested in Aztekium just 25 years ago, you would have thought the genus was monotypic containing just A. ritteri. So difficult to find are these plants that it wasn't until 1991 that the second species, A. hintonii was found, and it took all the way to 2013 to find and name the newest member of the genus, A. valdezii. At first glance it would be difficult to tell the species apart, but paying attention to the size of the plants, the shape and number of ribs, and details of the flowers can help you distinguish them. By contrast, Aztekium is so unique in appearance that it would be nearly impossible to mistake any other cactus for this genus.

​-- Kyle Williams

​Photos in Cactus Chronicle:

Aztekium ritteri, Aztekium valdezii in habitat

Beaucarnea - April 2014

Beaucarnea recurvata, the Ponytail Palm, is an incredibly popular plant grown by everyone from succulent enthusiasts to people with a black thumb (the latter usually as a neglected houseplant). While it looks nice as a small to medium sized houseplant, mature plants grown in the ground are really where you can see this species shine. What most people don't realize is there are several other species in the genus. The species are fairly similar (to those of us that don't focus on the genus), mainly varying in overall size, degree of branching, size of caudex, etc. Most species are sizable landscape plants, though B. compacta stays small enough to be part of a modest sized landscape where space is an issue.

 . . . the characteristics of being woody and having grass-like to sword-like leaves. Cultivation of most species is easy. Nearly all can grow in the ground, and most, but the largest species, can live happily in pots. They are mainly warm season growers so provide some water during the spring through fall to get them to look their best.

​-- Kyle Williams

Photo in Cactus Chronicle:

B. recurvata outside

Blossfeldia & Frailea - January 2018, January 2016, November 2012, Frailea June 2011

This month we are going small, very small, for our cacti. We are focusing on two genera, one of which is literally the smallest cactus species of all and the other likely has the smallest average plant size for a cactus genus with numerous species. This should be a heads up for those of you that think you are out of space for more plants. Not with these guys! Most of the species we are looking at this month could live permanently in a 3” pot or less. 

Frailea is a genus of approximately 20 species from South America, with most species in Brazil. In general they are quite small, with individual heads roughly the same diameter as a quarter. They clump, have small to no spines, and usually have a depressed or sunken center. In times of drought the plants will contract and sink below the soil level. This can help the plant retain water by getting it out of the hot sun. 

Individual plants often make two different types of flowers. The prettiest ones are big and open, generally bright yellow. These flowers are how the plant cross pollinates with other plants (i.e. the normal way flowers work). That allows for genes of different plants to combine allowing for more diversity within the species. The other, more unusual, flowers are referred to as cleistogamous, or hidden flowers. They don’t seem hidden at first. In fact you’ll see a big flower bud developing like normal, but it never opens. Eventually it falls off and the fruit develops and produces seeds. What happened was the flower intentionally remained closed and self-pollinated. This ensures seed production and therefore a higher chance of producing baby plants than with an open flower that may or may not get pollinated. The down side is the plants are very inbred, so any bad traits of the parent could be as bad or worse in the progeny. Of course, good traits can get passed along too! 

Blossfeldia is genus containing the single species Blossfeldia liliputiana from northern Argentina and southern Bolivia. It clumps readily with individual heads being smaller than a dime! This makes it the smallest cactus in the world. The flowers are similarly tiny. Blossfeldia is rarely seen in cultivation because it is hard to get the dust-like seeds to germinate and when they do, the plants are nearly microscopic. When they are seen for sale it is usually in grafted form. It is easy to grow that way though it will grow bigger this way than on its own roots. Previously, botanists thought Blossfeldia was related to Parodia or Frailea but modern DNA research has found it to be a very distinct lineage of cacti all its own.

Photos in the Cactus Chronicle -

Frailea asterioides, Frailea magnifica,Blossfeldia lilputana

Bombax - June 2009, September 2008 & 2007

Bombax ellipticum is the only member of this genus commonly seen. The Bombaceae is a relatively small family, which holds the genus Bombax along with Ceibia, a tropical genus with some pachycaul trees, and Adansonia, the largest of all of the pachycauls. There are a few other species in cultivation, but since they are tropical and large, they are not often seen in California.

Bombax elipticum develops a large semi-spherical caudex, quickly. It is a favorite of many growers. Each caudex is different in shape and color. They are easily grown, requiring only lots of fertilizer and water during their growing season. They are deciduous, losing all or most of their leaves in the fall, and leafing out again fairly late in the spring.

Some of the best caudexes (sic) are produced by abusing the growing plant and turning the pot on its side for all or part of a growing season. This produces the most interesting shapes, and the best looking plants. Many growers will cut off the trunk periodically to force new branched growth and more growing tips. All of these help produce the caudexes with great character that frequently grace our shows.

Photo in Cactus Chronicle:

Bombax elipticum

References

M. & G. Irish, Agaves, Yuccas and Related Plants

U. Eggli ed. Monocotyledons. Dicoledons

Tom Glavich July 2005 

Edited by Steven Frieze, 2009

Borzicactus - February 2013

for detailed information, see full article 

Borzicactus and Cleistocactus by Leo A. Martin, 

Central Arizona Cactus and Succulent Society (CACSS) website  http://centralarizonacactus.org/assets/article/genera/CACSS_Article_Borzicactus_Cleistocactus_Leo_Martin.PDF

Brachystelma - August 2014

Brachystelma is a big genus of 100 species or more. It has the largest range of these genera as it occurs from South Africa through India and Southeast Asia, and even to Australia! The largest number of species grow in South Africa. The species most commonly grown have a similar habit to Fockea and Raphionacme, but are noteworthy in having spectacular flowers that are similar to Stapeliads (the other genera have small nondescript flowers). The most commonly grown species, B. barbarae doesn't look like a succulent at all from above as it has large green leaves. Only when you see the tuber do you realize it is a desert plant.

Cultivation for the most commonly grown, South African, species of these genera is fairly easy. Treat as a summer growing succulent that doesn't like to dry out completely. Most plants will go dormant or semi-dormant in the winter and shouldn't be watered as often, though they seem fairly tolerant of our wet winters if the soil is well drained. The tubers/caudex grow the fastest when buried, so it is advantageous to grow them that way for several years before raising them.

Photo in Cactus Chronicle:

Brachystelma vahmeijeri

-- Kyle Williams

Brazilian cactus - August 2011

A Melocactus was very likely the first cactus seen by a European explorer, and certainly one of the first to be brought back and successfully grown. They were known in English collections by the late 16th century, less than 60 years after Columbus’ first voyage.

Melocactus are one of the many genera of cacti found in Brazil an enormous country with many eco­systems and climates. Many of the genera are typically associated with this country (including Melocactus mentioned above) such as Buiningia, Discocatus, Frailia, Rhipsalis, Ubelmannia, and Zygocactus. Other genera are less often associated with the Brazilian ecology but thrive in habitats throughout this country include Echinopsis, Monvillea, Opuntia, Parodia, and Wigginsia. In fact Brazil is how to over 60 genera of cacti that cover almost the entire geographic area of this country. Not mentioned yet but noteworthy are the plethora of Epiphyllum species found in the tropical areas of Brazil and the Brazilicereus native to this country only.

Melocactus are immediately recognizable by the large cephalium that develops on mature plants. Melocactus grow as normal appearing, but flowerless, globular cacti until they reach maturity. This can take from 6 to 15 years in cultivation, with a greater range in habitat. Once they reach maturity, the body stops growing vigorously (it still grows slowly). Most of the plant energy goes into producing a cylindrical flowering and fruiting structure known as a cephalium. This is usually white, with short hairs of yellow, orange or red. As the years go by, the cephalium becomes more cylindrical, with the base becoming more colorful The flowers are usually a red­purple, and the fruits are almost always a bright red, to attract birds. With age, the cephalium can grow to 18 inches or more in height, occasionally bifurcating or trifurcating.

Melocactus are native to a large region, Brazil to Southern Mexico, including a good part of the Caribbean. As might be expected, cacti from the tropical regions, particularly coastal regions are sensitive to cold and wet. Cold and wet conditions can cause scaring of the body, which usually appears as brown or tan lesions on the skin. A few of these are unavoidable, but a badly scarred plant quickly becomes unsightly. At the same time, almost all of the Melocactus expect high humidity and a higher moisture level than might be expected. Many grow within sight of the ocean, or in some of the more tropical and humid regions of Brazil. They like water, but demand good drainage. 

Melocactus are generally solitary, so the only means of propagation is through seeds. Fortunately they produce plenty of seed, and these germinate readily, particularly when the weather is warm. Keep the seedlings protected from direct sun, and moist until fairly large. Although it is several years from seed to a flowering plant, most of the Melocactus have magnificent spination and vividly colored bodies, which make keeping them a pleasant task.

Frailea are "smallish" many stemmed cacti that many experts now view as short ­lived. Some now speculate that Frailea may function as a annual in habitat sowing seeds from the base of a mother plant. In habitat, Frailea are found in ecological niches where there are large rock formations and just a couple of inches of soil.

Endemic to Southern Brazil, Discocactus are prized by the collector if for no other reason that the elegant wooly cephallun the plants develop in maturity. Similar to the Melocactus, flowers originate from the ceplhallun which can reach two or more inches in heigth.

Photos in Cactus Chronicle:

Frailea species, Discocactus psuedoinsignis in a sandy habitat,

Melocactus azureus entered by Rosemarie Sauer  2003 CSSA Show,

Brazilicerus phaeacanthus

 Reference:

The New Cactus Lexicon, David Hunt

The Brazilian Cactus Project (web), Marlon Machado

Tom Glavich April 2004,  Photo by T. Nomer 

Steve Frieze, August 20011

Bromeliad - April 2017

Bromeliads is the term used for members of the Bromeliaceae, a family of plants known for their epiphytic habit (i.e. growing on trees). This is a very large family of over 51 genera and 3,500 species. For comparison, the cactus family (Cactaceae) has more genera but only half the number of species as Bromeliads. Obviously, twice as many species as all cacti combined are too many species for a plant of the month! Fortunately, there is an easy way to limit our scope in a way that makes sense for a cactus and succulent club, focus on the species that are terrestrial and adapted to the xeric conditions we normally associate with cacti and succulents.

Most Bromeliads are tropical rainforest epiphytes with a rosette shape that allows the plant to form a vase or bowl like shape which catches water. Why do rainforest plants need to catch water? Epiphytes live on the branches of trees, which means there is no moist soil for the roots to tap into. Orchids and jungle cacti deal with this through succulence, but Bromeliads deal with it by catching water in cup shaped leaves and absorbing the water directly through those leaves (instead of the roots) using modified hairs called “trichomes”. That is an ability very few other plants possess. For those of you who’ve never had the opportunity to go to the Central or South American tropics, you can see Bromeliads, Orchids, and jungle Cacti all on the same tree branch! No open space in the tropics goes unused, even a branch.

Bromeliads and Cacti share a very interesting feature of their distribution. They are both found native only North and South America, and nowhere else in the world. They are the two largest plant families to be found exclusively in the Americas. This strongly suggests that both families evolved at a point after the Americas separated from the other continents.

Our interest this month is on the Bromeliads that are terrestrial (i.e. grow on the ground) and are xeric, or adapted to dry, desert like conditions. Unlike most Bromeliads whose roots are used only to attach the plant to a tree, these species take up water through their roots like normal plants. Though it is quite possible that they take in some water through their leaves when opportunities arise. Because of their “normal”, non-epiphytic, habit it was assumed terrestrial species were the most primitive member of the family. Modern DNA research has found this not true at all. In fact, the earliest branch of the family (that still exists) is a carnivorous bromeliad that catches insects in its water filled pitchers!

The most commonly grown genera of terrestrial Bromeliads are Deuterocohnia Dyckia, Hechtia, and Puya. Dyckia and Hechtia are small enough to make nice potted specimens. They look a lot alike, despite being distantly related, but have very different flowers. They both have colorful, serrated leaves often covered in fuzz or felt. Deuterocohnia is popular for forming big mounds made up of small rosettes. Puya are generally very large plants that are much too big for a pot, or even smaller landscapes. If you have the space for a Puya you will be rewarded with some of the most unusually colored flowers in the plant kingdom, such as metallic blues, greens, and purples.

 -- Kyle Williams

Photos in Cactus Chronicle:

Puya berteroniana flowers, Deuterocohnia brevifolia, Dyckia Hybrid

Buiningia - May 2014

Coleocephalocereus is a genus of approximately six species of with a columnar habit. Many know the genus as Buiningia, but botanists have determined Coleocephalocereus is the more proper name. What makes this a standout genus worthy of cultivation (and easy to identify) is the lateral cephalium running down the sides of mature plants. "Lateral cephalium" probably made several people's eyes glaze over, but don't worry, once you see one you won't forget it! Coleocephalocereus is a mouthful to say but in English it means "the Cereus with a sheath head" which makes a lot of sense.

Most people are familiar with Melocactus because it grows like a normal green cactus for several years but then starts to produce a strange fuzzy and spiny "head" (that's what cephalium means) which makes flowers. Over the years the this fuzzy head grows taller and taller while the normal green part of the plant remains the same. Turns out that Coleocephalocereus does the same thing but in a "smarter" way from a growth standpoint. While Melocactus completely stops producing a normal green stem for the rest of its life, Coleocephalocereus produces the cephalium on one side of the plant only, meaning the stem can keep growing up. This gives a very unusual but beautiful look, almost like a beard on the plant.

They are from tropical regions and appreciate warmer temperatures. It is best to keep them at a minimum of 50 degrees in the winter, but they can be grown cooler (but never below freezing) if kept dry in the winter. Cool and wet makes them prone to rot.  During the summer they appreciate more water than the average cactus.

-- Kyle Williams

​Photos in Cactus Chronicle:

Coleocephalocereus aureus, Coleocephalocereus brevicylindricus

Bulb - January 2016

   caudiciform - October 2006

Bulbs are an extreme form of geophytic succulent. They produce leaves, sometimes not, when there is available moisture, and they dry back to the surface or below when the moisture is gone.

Bulbs are native to both hemispheres, and all the continents except Antarctica. Australia, a continent with few succulents in the conventional sense has a wealth of bulbs. The Mediterranean region and the inner parts of Asia, have an extraordinary range of bulbs.  There are an incredible number of families and species to choose from. Attention needs to be paid to the growing conditions the bulbs come from (mostly winter or summer growing, and the tolerance to water out of season.) Some bulbs grow in spring and summer, flowering in late fall, some in the fall, flowering at any season, sometimes even when there are no leaves.

The principal families of bulbs grown by succulent collectors are the Amaryllid Family, represented here by the New World species Habranthus acutifolia, and the South African Haemanthus deformis, most barely known in cultivation.

Amaryllids tend to be large. The other extreme is represented by the Hyacinth family, with many wonderful small bulbs. Just one is represented here, Ornithogalum juncifolium, with bulbs only 1⁄2 inch in diameter, exposed, as they would be in habitat.

-- Tom Glavich, October 2005​

Photos in Cactus Chronicle:

Ornithogalum juncifolium, Habranthus acutifolia, Haemanthus deformis

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Bursera - September 2018, August 2013, March 2008 & 2007

Both Bursera and Commiphora are members of the Burseraceae. Bursera are confined to the New World, mostly from Southern California through Guatemala. 

They all do best when watered in the summer in Southern California. They will all tolerate being left unprotected, outdoors during the winter rains, Any standard succulent mix will do as a potting medium. Growth is much more rapid when they are fed. If grown in an open mix they can take an amazing amount of water in the summer, and will reward the grower with substantial growth and trunk thickening. All of the plants do well when treated as bonsai, and pruned to expose the geometry and structure of the trunk and bark. Planting in the ground will greatly accelerate the growth rate.

Bursera is a wide spread genus, with a range that extends from California into South America. Many of the species are beautiful trees with red or brown peeling bark, rarely seen in cultivation. Some of the tree-like species are very vigorous growers, going from a foot to 6 feet or more in a just two years, in a medium size pot. Most Bursera are aromatic, with wonderful woodsy fragrance from their leaves and bark. Most of the species are worth growing and can be made into show specimens by suitable pruning. Many of the larger species require hard pruning every year to avoid having them turn into trees. Species frequently seen are Bursera fagaroides,Bursera microphylla, with very small leaves, Bursera multijuglans (with red peeling bark), and Bursera simplex. There are many other species from Central and Southern Mexico, and Central America that should be grown and shown.

Vigorous growth is also found in well fed and watered plants. 

​-- Kyle Williams, Special Thanks to Tom Glavich

Photos in Cactus Chronicle:

Bursera fagaroides, Bursera fagaroides leaf

Cacti from Coahuila - October 2013

Located in the central part of Northern Mexico the state of Coahuila shares its borders with the once Mexican land of Texas in the U.S. along the Rio Bravo or Rio Grande to the north, and with the states if Nuevo Leon to the east, Zacatecas to the south, Durango to the southwest and Chihuahua to the west.

Its vast area of 151,595 square kilometers makes it the third largest Mexican state in terms of territory, only behind Chihuahua and Sonora.  Coahuila is located within the Chihuahuan Desert.  Also standing out as part of the state's physical features are the Mapimi Desert, and the fertile lands of the so-called Lagunera region shared with the neighboring state of Durango.

The hydrological zone of the Rio Bravo-RioConchos lies within the state's limits.  The Rio Bravo is the northern frontier and flows into the Gulf of Mexico as well as the basin of the Nazas River-Aguanaval River, another major hydrological system within the region.  Some other rivers are born in the local mountain chains, including the Alamos and others.

Local climate usually includes dry or semi-dry conditions, along with disturbingly high temperatures across the lowlands (some areas of Coahuila can reach high temperatures of 120 to 125F) while the pine and oak forests produce fresher and more moderate conditions along the eastern Sierra Madre.  The rest of the territory is home to typical desert scrubland, containing  wild lettuce, cassava and thistle bushes.

About 12,000 years ago, nomadic hunters entered this region, which once included South Texas.  Archeological evidence suggests early hunter-gatherer cultures evolved into fixed societies that engaged in agriculture and fishing and used area caves as shelter.  Later, Coahuila became home to several Indian tribes.  When the Spaniards arrived, they found the natives to be peaceful and prosperous.  Sadly, nearly 90% of the indigenous population was killed by European diseases.

The Spanish colonized the state between 1550 and 1580.  Colonization was impeded by the vast desert, extreme weather and shortage of water.  The state of Texas was part of the Mexican State, Coahuila y Tejes before declaring independence in 1835.

Partial list of cactus genera and species native to Coahuila:

Ariocarpus fissuratus, Astrophytum capricorne, A. cohuilerae, Coryphantha, Echinocereus, Echinomastus, Gymnocactus, Lophophora, Mammillaria, Opuntia, Stenocactus, Thelocactus, Turbinicarpus.

-- Manny Rivera

Edited by Kyle Williams

Photos in Cactus Chronicle:

Ariocarpus, Astrophytum, Stenocactus

{original very blurry and difficult to decipher, 

some species and place names unreadable and not included}i

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Calibanus - April 2014, September 2008

     caudiciform - September 2007

This group used to be called, the plant family Agavaceae, but today are considered part of the Asparagus family Asparagaceae. Cultivation of most species is easy. Nearly all can grow in the ground, and most, but the largest species, can live happily in pots. They are mainly warm season growers so provide some water during the spring through fall to get them to look their best.

Calibanus is unusual. At first glance, you might think you are looking at a big tuft of blue-green grass, but upon closer inspection you will see the large, fissured, woody caudex that makes this plant so desirable. It makes a nice specimen either in the ground or in a pot. I recommend raising the base to show off the caudex to its greatest extent.

-- Kyle Williams

Photo in Cactus Chronicle:

Calabanus hookerii

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Caralluma - September 2009 & 2008

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Caudex succulents of Baja - March 2009

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Cephalium bearing cacti - June 2012

Melocactus are immediately recognizable by the large cephalium that develops on mature plants.  Melocactus grow as normal appearing, but flowerless, globular cacti until they reach maturity. This can take from 6 to 15 years in cultivation, with a greater range in habitat. Once they reach maturity, the body stops growing vigorously (it still grows slowly). Most of the plant energy goes into producing a cylindrical flowering and fruiting structure known as a cephalium. This is usually white, with short hairs of yellow, orange or red. As the years go by, the cephalium becomes more cylindrical, with the base becoming more colorful The flowers are usually a red-purple, and the fruits are almost always a bright red, to attract birds. With age, the cephalium can grow to 18 inches or more in height, occasionally bifurcating or trifurcating.

Endemic to Southern Brazil, Discocactus are prized by the collector if for no other reason that the elegant wooly cephalium the plants develop in maturity.  Similar to Melocactus, flowers develop from the cephalium, which can reach two or more inches in height.

Photos in Cactus Chronicle:

Discocactus psuedoinsignis in a sandy habitat, Discocactus buenekeri,

Discocactus horstii, Melocactus azureus, 

Melocactus azureus entered by Rosemarie Sauer in the 2003 CSSA Show

Reference:

D. Hunt, The New Cactus Lexicon

The Brazilian Cactus Project (web), Marlon Machado

Tom Glavich April 2004 -- Steve Frieze, June 2012

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Ceraria - January 2015

Ceraria is a genus of Southern African (primarily South African and Namibia) succulents that is interesting both from a horticultural perspective and a taxonomic one.

Ceraria is not commonly grown. It has just a few species, primarily in Namibia. The genus is similar to, and related to, Portulacaria. They form woody shrubs to small trees with peeling bark. The leaves small and fleshy, and drop off in times of drought. Ceraria pygmaea is the smallest species and can make a nice succulent bonsai.

Ceraria traditionally belonged to the Purslane Family, Portulacaceae. However, modern taxonomic research use DNA has discovered that it doesn't belong in that family. Ceraria has now, along with Portulacaria, been placed in the Didiereaceae. Prior to this all Didiereaceae were thought to be thorny shrubs from Madagascar (e.g. Didierea and Allauaudia). Now this extends the family to the African mainland. Another finding from molecular research is that Anacampseros and Avonia are really the same genus (to be called Anacampseros) and belong in their own separate family, the Anacamserotaceae. It would be difficult to call this a completely new finding as taxonomists originally considered them the same genus before splitting them up. 

-- Kyle Williams

Photo in Cactus Chronicle:

 Ceraria namaquensis

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Ceriods (North America) - September 2015

Ceroids are the group of cacti that used to pretty much all be lumped into Cereus by early taxonomists. Allowing for a few exceptions, this group encompasses all the columnar cacti. This is NOT a natural or "monophyletic" group of genera despite once being thought to be so.  DNA research has shown that, for example, Cereus is more closely related to Gymnocalycium than it is to Pachycereus!  For the sake of discussion consider any genus with "-cereus" in the name (e.g. Pachycereus, Selenocereus, Acanthocereus, etc.) to be a Cereoid cactus. Also add in most any cactus that has columnar growth similar to these species, such as Carnegeia, Espostoa, or Harrisia.  Keep in mind that a cactus does not have to be upright to be columnar. For example, some Echinopsis have a long trailing habit. Just to be clear, columnar growth means the stems normally are round in cross section and grow long and unjointed (i.e. not Opuntia), nor is the shrubby Pereskia part of this group.

While most any cactus can be grown in a pot, most Cereoids are at their best as landscape specimens allowed to reach their full potential. Echinopsis panchoi (San Pedro) may be one of the most commonly grown cacti in our region, but it is hard not to be impressed whenever you see a well grown tree like specimen 20' or taller with dozens upon dozens of stems!  A bright blue Pilocereus is a focal point in any succulent landscape. And let's not forget the majesty of a mature Saguaro (Carnegia gigantea), despite it doing poorly in our region. Stenocereus eruca is an interesting Cereoid from Arizona that is, by any definition, a large columnar cactus with stems 10' or longer, but you'll never see it looking across the horizon as it grows flat on the ground (prostrate). It takes a lot of space in a landscape because of this habit, but if you have the room and don't mind all the spines it really is a conversation piece! There are also plenty of smaller species that can make excellent potted specimens such as small Echinopsis, Pygmaeocereus, or smaller species of Espostoa.

Cereoids make up a huge group of cacti, representing well over half the family. North American examples include genera such as Pachycereus, Peniocereus, Echinocereus, and Stenocereus. 

-- Kyle Williams

Photos in Cactus Chronicle:

 Saguaro, Stenocereus eruca, 

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Cissus - September 2016, July 2010

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Columnar Cacti - February 2014

Columnar cacti are a highly heterogeneous group defined by growth form rather than any natural grouping or relationship. As such, there is very little that unifies the group outside of growth form, which can roughly be defined as an upright, mostly self supporting, cactus that is at least twice as tall as wide. Implied in this definition is that the "column" is largely unjointed, thereby excluding cacti such as Opuntia and Schlumbergera. Even so, we are left with a vast array of cacti that are anywhere from a few inches to over 50 feet tall, ranging from the United States all the way down to southern South America, with cold tolerance ranging from highly frost sensitive to those that can be frozen solid for the winter without harm. To add confusion to the mix, some species start out as globular but after many years become columnar. For example, Astrophytum species are usually seen in shows as globular, or short columnar plants at most. However, at the Huntington Garden you can see examples of Astrophytums in the ground that are several feet tall!

So what can we say about them? As a rule, they tend to grow faster than globular cacti. They also are more tolerant of full sun, as the nature of their growth means they don't stay shaded by shrubs and grasses unlike their more diminutive counterparts. Larger species will eventually need to be put in the ground. Smaller types (like many Mammillaria) make wonderful specimen plants in pots for years on end. Some of the taller types may require some staking in windy climates to avoid the risk of snapping in a wind-storm. When choosing a place to plant them it is important to know if the cactus stays fairly upright and unbranched or if it sends out multiple stems and branches turning into a giant shrub of sorts. Knowledge of growth rate is also key, as many species can reach 15 feet in a few years, while a Saguaro may take your entire lifetime to reach that height! With such variation between species it is paramount that you look up the specific requirements of the plants you choose.

-Kyle Williams

Photos in Cactus Chronicle:

​Astrophytum ornatum “columnar”,  Espostoa melanostele, Astrophytum ornatum “globular”,

Carnegiea gigantea, Stenocereus eruca, Mammillaria bombycina

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Commiphora - August 2013 & 2019

Both Bursera and Commiphora are members of the Burseraceae.  Commiphora are confined to the Old World, mostly South and East Africa and Madagascar. 

 . . . some of the Commiphora are more sensitive to freezing temperatures, and need protection when freezes occur.  

Commiphora is a widespread genus, stretching from South Africa through tropical Africa and continuing into Madagascar. Many of the species have peeling bark, although the color tends to run more towards the yellow and brown rather than red.

​Commiphora capensis and cervifolia are both occasionally available. Unnamed (or unidentified) species of Commiphora from Sudan, Madagascar, Kenya, and Tropical Africa are sometimes available, and beginning to be propagated. Named species are beginning to appear on seed lists and nursery catalogs. The genus is understudied, and there are many species unknown or unidentified.

Vigorous growth is also found in well fed and watered plants. Commiphora are aromatic, with fragrances that manage to be both similar and different to Bursera. Commiphora pyracanthoides is similar to some of the tall growing Bursera, and is easily grown from seed. 

Photo in Cactus Chronicle:

Commiphora orbicularis

-- Kyle Williams, Special Thanks to Tom Glavich

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Conophytum - March 2016, February 2013, October 2006

Conophytum's reputation for being touchy and difficult to grow is undeserved. While they are usually grown in pots on benches, they can be a part of rock garden landscapes, as seen at the Sherman Library & Gardens in Corona del Mar.

Many people seeing Conophytum for the first time assume they must be some type of Lithops, so great is the similarity. Both genera do have the "living stones" look to them, belong to the same family, the Aizoaceae (often informally called Mesembs), and are native to South Africa and Namibia. However, a closer look will allow you to tell them apart quite easily. The best way

to identify a Conophytum is to look at the leaves. In Lithops you have two distinct leaves, while in Conophytum the leaves are fused together with just a small pore or slit in the center from which the flowers emerge. Conophytum forms a dry papery sheath around itself when dormant while Lithops never does. Another clue is that Conophytum are winter growers while Lithops are most active in summer and fall. This feature is an adaptation to the areas they grow in the wild; Lithops in summer rainfall regions and Conophytum in winter rainfall zones. Additionally, Conophytum flowers have petals united into a tube at the base and "bracts" (small scale or leaf like growths) on the tube. Lithops has no tube or bracts.

Cultivation of most species of Conophytum is fairly straightforward. As the weather cools in the fall start watering your plant. If it is ready to grow it will suck up water and burst forth from the protective sheaths. Water regularly during the growing season as the plants should not dry out during this time, though keeping them too wet risks bloating, splitting and rot. A very fast draining planting medium is recommended. Keep an eye out for signs of the leaves shrinking and collapsing when the days get warmer and longer in the spring. This is perfectly normal and you should stop watering at this time. The plants will shrink down quite a bit as the leaves turn into a dry, papery sheath that will protect the next year's leaves until fall. From this point until the fall the plants are in dormancy. Smaller species may need a bit of water, the bigger ones likely won't need any. Plants like some sun in growing season, but once the plants start entering dormancy move them to a shady location to avoid scorching. Some species can withstand light frost, but it is best to protect your plants if frost threatens. Commonly available species include C. bilobum, C. obcordellum, and C. uviforme.

-- Kyle Williams

​Photos in Cactus Chronicle:

Conophytum wettstenii showing papery sheaths, Conophytum “Shokkoden”, Conophytum obcordellum

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Copiapoa - January 2017, March 2013, March 2010, October 2007

Copiapoa is a genus of spectacular cacti from the Atacama Desert along the north coast of Chile. Copiapoa were first collected in the 1840s, and described as Echinocactus, then the home to any of the more or less globular cacti. The genus Copiapoa was named by Britton and Rose in 1922 in their great work The Cactaceae. The name derives from Chilean province of Copiapo, home of many of the species. Currently 26 species of Copiapoa are generally recognized. Species of this genus are relatively small, though they can form large clumps. The largest species rarely surpass three feet in height, while the smallest species, C. laui, rivals Blossfeldia for the title of world's smallest cactus.

The habitat of Copiapoa is incredibly dry, even by desert standards. They occur in the Atacama, the world's driest desert. The average rainfall in the region is 1mm/year (0.04 inches). Many areas get rainfall only once every four years and some weather stations have never recorded a single drop of rain! Interestingly Copiapoa thrives in these extreme conditions to the extent that the genus peters out at the northern and southern ends of its range because these areas are where rainfall starts to become more regular and predictable.

How can any plant, even a cactus, survive in a climate where years can go by without rain? They do it by living off the fog that regularly covers the coastal regions of northern Chile. Anyone living in coastal California in June knows this gloomy fog all too well. Surely we've all noticed our plants, and pretty much any outside surface, covered in moisture condensed from the fog on overcast mornings. Without this fog, even Copiapoa could not survive in the Atacama Desert.

Copiapoa live along the coast and through the river valleys cut through the coastal mountains. The hills and valleys of Northern Chile are still not well explored from a botanical point of view. When these areas have been explored new species have been found, and it is likely more will found in the future.

Given these extremely dry conditions, one would expect cultivation to be difficult in our comparatively wet Southern California winters. Fortunately, this is not so, and Copiapoa are relatively easy to grow. They respond happily to the same potting mix, watering, and fertilization as most cacti. When given favorable growing conditions these plants develop many times faster than they would in their native habitat. Some species can even be grown in the open ground in the Los Angeles area, as long as the soil is well drained. They do tend to grow slower than some other cacti of similar size.

Copiapoa are easily propagated from cuttings or division of clumps. Seed is available from the CSSA seed bank, and most cactus seed nurseries. These seeds germinate quickly in the spring. They should be started in a moist potting mix, and moved to drier media after germination. They do very well in a mineral potting mix with almost no organic matter.

-- Kyle Williams

​Photos in Cactus Chronicle:

Copiapoa coquimana in habitat, two more photos with no captions.

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Coryphantha - February 2023, February 2018, July 2014, March 2008 & 2007

Coryphantha and Escobaria are two moderate sized genera (57 and 23 species respectively) of small North American cacti similar in appearance to Mammillaria and were originally included in

that genus. They share in common a small, mostly globular, stature and an incredible level of cold tolerance, at least in some species.  Escobaria vivipara and E. missouriensis are particularly widespread species covering most of western and midwestern North America. In fact, the native range of E. vivipara extends all the way into Canada, a feat matched only by a few species of Opuntia. This cold tolerance allows people in even the coldest climates to grow these species outdoors. 

While all plants in this group are relatively small, many can form good sized clumps in time (much like Mammillaria). Some of the variation between species include having globular plants and more cylindrical, upright plants. Flowers vary from yellow to pink. Some species are covered in dense white spines while others are more sparesly covered, allowing the green body of the plant to shine through. A large number of species produce tap roots.  Cultivation is similar to Mammillaria and other small cacti. While some members of these genera are renowned for their cold tolerance, keep in mind many species come from warm climates. Of course that isn't much of an issue for us in California, but anyone growing them in cold climates needs to make sure they pick the cold tolerant species.

Coryphantha and Escobaria are two closely related genera that are in turn closely related to Mammillaria. In fact many botanists feel that Escobaria should not be recognized as a genus,  instead lumping all the species in Coryphantha itself. This is what the authors of  "The Flora of North America", the field guide to all the plants of the USA and Canada, chose to do. To make it even more complicated, there is evidence to suggest that Coryphantha shouldn't be a genus either and should all be considered species of Mammillaria! Coryphantha and Escobaria differ from Mammillaria largely in flowering on new growth while Mammillaria blooms primarily on previous year's growth. Coryphantha and Escobaria differ from each other only by details of the seeds. Confused yet? Unless you are a botanist it doesn't really matter. The important thing is to learn about these plants and just call them a name you are comfortable with until the botanists sort out the relationship issues. Don't be shocked, however, if one day we are calling all of them Mammillaria once again.

Photos in the Cactus Chronicle -

Coryphantha elephantidens, Escobaria vivipara, Coryphantha minima

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Cotylendon - January 2008

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Crassula - October 2013

Crassula is a large genus of approximately 300 species of succulents with a worldwide distribution.  It belongs to the Crassulaceae, a family of leafy succulents that includes Adromischus, Aeonium, Cotyledon, Dudleya, Echevaria, Kalanchoe, Sedum, and several other ornamental genera.  The latest number of Crassula species, including nearly all cultivated ones, are from Africa (especially the eastern Cape of South Africa).  However, right here in California we have three native species: Crassula aquatica, C. connate, and C. solleri.  Unfortunately these species are small and weedy, and therefore not ideal for cultivation.  Crassula aquatica has the rare distinction of being an aquatic succulent.  It often grows in vernal pools that dry out in summer so its succulent nature allows it to survive later in the summer than other plants in that habitat.

Crassula is distinguished from the most of the rest of the family by having as many stamens as petals, and having opposite leaves.  Other African members of the Crassulaceae have twice as many stamens as petals.  Depending on the species, Crassula can range from being a tiny herb only an inch or two high (e.g. C. susensis) to a large shrub like the common Jade Plant (C. ovata).

The genus runs the gamut from beginner plants that are virtually indestructible to difficult winter growers that are intolerant of water in the summer, but at the same time prone to drying up is insufficient moisture isn't provided.  It is imperative to look up the cultural conditions for your particular your particular plant as there is no singular bit of advice that can cover all Crassula.  There are some generalities that cover most cultivated Crassula.  They are usually winter growers.  They start growth in October, grow until the days get too short, sit out the worst of the winter, and then grow again until the weather warms in early summer.  Most are dormant during the summer.  This works well in our wet winter/dry summer climate.

Propagation of almost all Crassula species is most easily done by vegetative offsets.  Cuttings should be taken when the plants are in active growth, early spring being the best, left to dry for a day or two, and then simply potted in the same mix as the original plant.  Rooting is almost always rapid and new growth appears in a week or two.  Many species can be started from leaf cuttings so long as you include the base of the leaf where it attaches to the stem.  Propagation from seed is possible but can be surprisingly difficult.  Seed planted in October or November.  Germination is sporadic, and keeping the seedlings alive is often a challenge.

-- Kyle Williams

Special thanks to Tom Glavich

Photos in Cactus Chronicle:

Crassula ausensis sup. titanopsis, Crassula arborescens, Crassula aquatica

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Crest and Monstrose - November 2018 & 2015 & 2013, February 2012, November 2011,

                                                     October 2008, November 2007 

Crested and Monstrose plants are deformed versions of otherwise normal plants caused by abnormal growth. Specifically, they exhibit deformed growth caused by the growing points (called meristems) of the plants forming new tissue in an improper manner. The exact nature of the deformed growth separates crested plants from mon- strose ones. While most often seen, and coveted in cacti and other succulents, crested and monstrose growth can occur in any kind of plant.

Normal plant growth takes place at a single point at the tip of each branch or stem called the apical meristem. The apical meristem produces new cells that go on to form the rest of the plant, but the meristem itself remains a single cell. This growth from a single point is why stems are generally round and regular in shape. The apical meristem also suppresses the growth of dormant meristems along the stem, especially those closest to the tip.

Crested plants (also known as fasciation) are distinctive in that they grow in a linear or wavy shape. This growth can be so unusual that it can be hard to tell that a crest and normal form of a species are really the same thing! This growth form results from a mutation in the apical meristem where instead of remaining a single cell it starts forming many new apical meristems all in a horizontal row. This means that instead of one apical meristem controlling growth, you have dozens, if not hundreds, all trying to produce new growth at the same time. This growth could be considered regular irregularity in that line of meristems is abnormal, but they grow in an organized fashion giving us the beautiful and strange crests we grow.

Monstrose growth also results from meristems going haywire. In this case the apical meristem can no longer control and suppress the dormant lateral meristems, so they all start growing. That creates a malformed, often overly branched, plant that looks strange to some and fascinating to others.

Several factors are known to cause plants to crest or go monstrose. Sometimes a random mutation causes this. Usually this mutation is not passed on to any seeds it produces. It can also occur from a hormonal imbalance in the plant. External factors include certain fungal or bacterial infestations, or even environmental damage than normal plants of the same species. They tend to be more attractive to spider mites and mealy bugs than normal plants, and a careful eye must be kept on them to keep good growth.

Culture of Crests and Monstrose Plants

Crested and monstrose plants are grown exactly as normal plants of the same species. Some have weak roots, and only grow well as grafts. However, others are robust growers, and do perfectly well on their own. Careful observation of the health of the plant, and comparison to healthy normal growth plants of the same species will quickly show whether grafting is necessary. You can also research your plant online or by asking other growers to find out the special needs of your particular crest or monstrose. These plants tend to be more sensitive to poor growing conditions, getting sunburn quicker, and getting un- sightly brown spots more easily than normal plants of the same species. They tend to be more attractive to spider mites and mealy bugs than normal plants, and a careful eye must be kept on them to keep good growth.

Propagation of crested plants

In most cases, Crests and Monstrose plants flower and produce seed, just as other plants do, but less often. Good strong growth is probably the best way to produce a flowering crest. Crests and Monstrosity are not generally transmitted by seed; however, seed from a genetic mutant plant (i.e. not from pathogens or environmental factors) is much more likely to be a genetic mutant than that from a normal plant. The genetic mutation is more likely to be the same as the parent, but any other mutation is also possible.

The most common method of propagation of crested plants is vegetative. Cuttings of crests are often grafted to speed growth and to preserve special growth forms. Cuttings of varieties that are on their own roots will generally root easily, as long as the cuts are taken during the growing season. After a few days drying, the cut sections are simply stuck into slightly moist potting soil. After a few weeks, there will be sufficient roots to resume normal watering. 

—Kyle Williams,  with special thanks to Tom Glavich 

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Cucurbitaceae - July 2014, April 2010

Cucurbitaceae are a large family of plants consisting of nearly 120 genera and over 800 species. In its non-succulent form this family produces many important food crops including melons, cucumbers, pumpkins, and squash. This plant family has genera that have been grown for over 10,000 years. It should be no surprise then that the succulent form of this family generates a vine that emerges from a caudex root system that ultimately forms uni-sexual flower.

Many of the more collectable cucurbits are tropical caudiciforms, requiring warm weather for growth, and sensitive to cold and wet. Typical growth habits start with a fast growing vine starting in late spring to early summer, ending growth in late September or October. When the vines die back, they can be cut off, and the caudex removed to a garage or basement for winter storage. Most succulent cucurbitaceae are very vigorous growers and will grow much faster and better if given free root run.

One of the rarest of succulents is Dendrosicyos socotrana, a tree cucumber from the Island of Socotra. This island, off the coast of Yemen is known for its endemic species and bizarre plant life. It is an Indian Ocean equivalent to the Galapagos Islands. This monotypic species has a large trunk reaching to 20 feet tall and 3 feet in diameter, and prickly leaves.

Another rare and beautiful cucurbit is Seyrigia humbertii, from a genus found only in Madagascar. In has a small caudex, with blue green felt covered stems growing like very thick grass. Also from Madagascar is Xerosicyos. There are four species associated with this genus, the most common of which is Xerosicyos danguyi. This species has quarter sized glaucus green leaves widely spaced on sprawling stems. It is relatively easy to grow, as long as it is kept dry in winter and not allowed to get much below 40 degrees.

One of the newest Cucurbits to enter cultivation is Odosycios bosseri, a caudiciform species from Madagascar.

Momordica is a medium sized genus from the old world tropics with about 60 species, some of which form caudices. The most popular is Momordica rostrata which forms a pleated cone. Climbing vines start from the tip of caudex, grow through the summer, and die back in the fall. Also from the old world tropics is Kedrostis, a genus of about 35 species, the most common of which is Kedrostis africana, a caudiciform plant that is found in many collections. Similar to Kedrostis is Gerrardanthus, differing only in the fruits and details of the climbing tendrils. Both genera have several members that form very large caudices. They are rampant growers, and do well in the ground during the growing season. Gerrardanthus macrorhizus is found in South African. The caudex from which the vine grows can, in habitat, grow up to 5 feet in diameter which the vine reaches 30 feet in length. This plant requires partial shade and fast draining soil.

The new world equivalent to Kedrostis and Gerrardanthus is Ibervillea, with several species known, and with new species being found in the jungles of Southern Mexico and Central America.  Ibervillea sonorae and Ibervillea tenuisecta are both readily available and easily grown. They form light gray elongated caudices. Like the African species, they won’t tolerate cold, damp roots for long.

Other less common members of the family include Anisosperma from Brazil, Cephalopentandra from Tropical Africa, Ceratosanthes from the Caribbean and South America, Coccinia from Africa and Asia, Corallocarpus also from Africa and Asia, Cyclantheropsis from Africa and Madagascar, Eureiandra from Africa and Socotra, Neoalsomitra from India to Australia, Telfairia and Trochomeria from Africa, Zehneria from the Old World Tropics, and Zygosicyos from Madagascar. Continuing exploration of the tropical forests of Africa, Asia and the Americas will bring new genus and species to the collector.

Photos in Cactus Chronicle:

Female Gerrardanthus macrohizus, Ibervillea sonorae

References:

G. Rowley, Name that Succulent

G. Rowley, Caudiciform and Pachycaul Succulents

A. Sajeva and M. Costanzo, Succulents, The Illustrated Dictionary

Tom Glavich March 2002 -- Edited, Steve Frieze September 2009

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​Cycad caudiciform - January 2008

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Cyphostemma - September 2016, July 2012 & 2010

Cyphostemma is a member of the Vitaceae or grape family. The members of this genus span the range from extremely easy to grow plants to real challenges. Many of the species will grow large, given time, good root room, lots of fertilizer, and water during the growing season. This genus contains some of the most striking pachycauls and caudexes of the entire plant world.

Most Cyphostemma will set fruit in Southern California. In almost all cases, the fruit is toxic to humans and most pets, although freely eaten by birds. The seeds in the fruit are ripe when the fruit turns color, usually bright red.

The key to success with these plants is to pay attention to the native habitat. Cyphostemma juttae, common in many collections, easily obtained, and often a show winner, comes from South Africa.  

Cyphostemma betiforme is still another unusual species originating from Kenya. They form rather large caudexs and stand up to five feet tall.  Another highly valued species is Cyphostemma uter. This plant comes from Namibia where it grows in very arid conditions

Propagation is easy from cuttings and seeds. Seed of all the common and even some of the truly rare species is sometimes available through the CSSA or through some of the better South African and US seed dealers. Germination is erratic (days to months), so only one seed should be sown per pot. The seedling mix should be sterile and organic, and hold a lot of water. Scarring the seeds to allow water penetration helps. The seeds should be completely buried to provide uniform moisture. A plastic bag over the mix will help keep soil moisture constant. The bag should be removed as soon as any sign of green appears, the seedling leaves are large, and will rot if they touch the plastic.

Softwood cuttings can be taken when in active growth. Rooting does not require or even seem to benefit from hormones. This is a good way to propagate overgrown specimen plants. Growth of all species is greatly aided by ample root room, but the more sensitive varieties must be lifted in the fall as they go dormant.

Photos in Cactus Chronicle:

Cyphostemma seitziana, Cyphostemma juttae, Cyphostemma betiforme,

Cyphostemma uter

References:

Gordon Rowley,  Caudiciform and Pachycaul Succulents

Tom Glavich June 2003 - Edited, Steve Frieze, June 2012

Didiereaceae - September 2015

The Didiereaceae (pronounced Dee-dee-air-ee-ace-ee-ee) was long thought to be an exclusively Madagascan family consisting of four genera and about 11 species, all thorny scrub shrubs and trees with drought deciduous leaves. All are pretty easy to recognize as related to each other, and with all of them being on Madagascar it made for a tidy story about evolution on the island. Then came those darn taxonomists using DNA to look at the actual relationships of Didiereaceae and its close relatives, the Cactaceae and  Portulacaceae (plus some other families you probably don't know).

While the DNA phylogeny did confirm what we already knew, that the four genera of Didiereaceae (Alluaudia, Alluaudiopsis, Didierea, and Decarya) are very closely related, it also surprised us by showing the South African genera Portulacaria and Ceraria are also closely related and belong in the family. In addition there is an enigmatic East African genus, Calyptrotheca which contains one or two species. For the sake of the monthly show note that I have listed every genus in the family above.

Let's start with the traditional, Madagascar group. All the species are found in the dry scrub forests of Madagascar where thorny shrubs and trees which drop their leaves in the dry season dominate. They fit right in as all of them are thorny shrubs and trees that drop their succulent leaves during times of drought. Alluaudia is the largest genus with six species and has some of the most unusual species. Alluaudia procera forms huge (20 feet and taller) individual, usually unbranched stems) arising from ground level up to a few feet off the ground. Decarya, with one species, is a many branched shrub distinctive for its zig-zag branches.

The continental African branch of the family was a surprise to many at first as Ceraria and Portulacaria are thornless and more succulent. But what I see are shrubs (except the tiny C. pygmaea) that are semi-woody and in the case of Ceraria drop their leaves readily in drought only to regrow them as soon as the rains come, just like the Madagascar plants. Portulacaria may retain its leaves but has a similar growth habit. Finally, there is Calyptrotheca. There is virtually no information about this genus that I can find on the internet, except that it is a 10-15 foot shrub with stems up to a foot thick. It sounds like a pachyform but the only image on the internet is of small tip branches with flowers but no leaves. It would be interesting to see this genus brought into cultivation!

Portulacaria is far and away the most widely planted species in our region. It is so easy that it is used commonly in drought tolerant landscapes for people who know nothing about plants. A distant second is A. procera which can often be seen for sale at regular nurseries. All the other species are usually seen only in specialist collections. The biggest problem in growing them is sensitivity to frost (particularly for the Madagascar plants) though many in our region grow these species successfully.

Photos in Cactus Chronicle:

Ceraria namaquensis, zig zag stems of Decarya, Didierea madagascariensis

-- Kyle Williams

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Dischidia - September 2007

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Discocactus  -  March 2018, January 2015

Discocactus are heavily ribbed South American cacti, primarily from Brazil. The genus is quite old, first described in 1837. The name comes from the shape of the body, which tends to be much flatter than tall, at least compared to the other ball like genera (Parodias etc.) that share its habitat. Discocactus can be found inland in the state of Minas Gerais, and further South in the states of Sao Paulo, Parana, Mato Grosso, and crossing into Paraguay, and even into the Southeastern most state of Bolivia, Santa Cruz. 

Although popular in cultivation, many of the species are endangered in the wild. 

The beautiful spination, the flat bodies, and the pleasantly fragranced flowers have made this a popular genus, and there are far more names in cultivation than there are true species. The number of species has varied from more than 60 down to 24 in recent publications (1990s), to the currently recognized 7. This is unlikely to be the last word on this attractive genus, so keep your old labels, they may soon be good again. In our shows, most of the generic names are accepted. 

The distinguishing characteristics of Discocactus are globular to flattened globular shape, a cephalium, and fragrant night blooming flowers. The cephalia stay relatively small, are almost always white, and have long soft wool. Discocactus have ring-meristems (a ring of growth cells) that surround the cephalium, and allow the body to continue to grow after the cephalium forms. This growth ring distinguishes Discocactus from the very similar and related Melocactus.

Discocactus has similar cultivation requirements to other tropical terrestrial cacti such as Melocactus and Uebelmannia. They thrive in warm humid climates where even the nights stay quite warm. However, they are fine in our Mediterranean climate with cool summer nights so long as we give them some extra warmth in the winter months. They shouldn't be kept in a location where the temperature drops below about 50F. They like more moisture than similar looking non-tropical cacti, but don't keep them wet, especially in the winter. 

Photos in Cactus Chronicle -- 

Discocactus buenekeri, Discocactus araneispinus, Variegated Discocactus

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Dorstenia - September 2013, August 2009

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Dudleya - February 2011, October 2007

Dudleyas are a succulent plant found throughout southwest U.S. and Mexico. They have a fleshy glaucous leaf structure which is easy to spot as you drive on Southern California highways and freeways.

Dudleyas can be grown in full sun almost anywhere in the Los Angeles area and tend to be winter grower. They form rosettes at the end of stems that may contain as many as 100 leaves. Flower are produced in late to early winter and are formed on long stalks that can reach up to three feet in length.

Photo in Cactus Chronicle:

Dudleya brittonii

​Sajeva and M. Costanzo, Succulents, The Illustrated Dictionary.

Tom Glavitch, 2003 - Edited by Steve Frieze, 2011

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Dyckia & hybrids - October 2009

Dyckias, are generally one of the most cold hardy of all of the Bromeliad genera. While most people are scurrying around trying to bring in the last of their plants before the first blue norther hits, Dyckia growers can sit back and enjoy themselves knowing that most of their plants can take temperatures down into the low twenties, or even the upper teens. Those Dyckias are tough plants!

Dyckia is one of the genera in the subfamily Pitcairnioideae. This subfamily contains some of the most primitive Bromeliad species. Most Pitcairnioideae genera are saxicolous (living on or around rocks) or terrestrial (growing in the ground), with Dyckias into both categories (e.g. D. saxicola), although most are strictly terrestrial and all do well when grown as strict terrestrials. The majority of the approximately 120 different species of Dyckia are native to central Brazil, with some being found in Uruguay, Paraguay, Argentina, and Bolivia. Most are found growing among rocks in warm sunny areas ranging in altitude from sea level to 2000 meters.

The genus was introduced into Europe during the nineteenth century, and was named for Prince von Salm-Dyck, an early expert on succulents. Although Dyckias have no internal water storage tissue like true succulents, they are xerographic and survive long periods without water by going dormant. Their rosette of thick succulent leaves will eventually wilt, but recovery is rapid when watering is resumed. These plants are tough! They will withstand more neglect than almost any other commonly cultivated plant and still pup and bloom every year. Their only demand is a little water and a lot of sunshine. In the spring they bear multiple red, yellow or orange flowers on a thin stalk that emerges from the side of the plant. The stalk length can range from about 10 centimeters for a small species like D. choristaminea to more than 2 meters for D. maritima.

Although the flowers aren’t large, bees, wasps and hummingbirds find them attractive. The plants themselves come in a range of colors (green, rose, maroon, tan, or silver), and a variety of leaf shapes (long and thin, short and fat, deeply lobed, or almost smooth). In an outdoor setting with considerable sunshine, these plants may be a welcome addition to your garden.

-- from the Bromeliad Society of Houston, Texas

{October 2009 Cactus Chronicle not present in archives}

Echevaria - July 2018, May 2011, October 2007

Echeveria is one the principal members of the succulent New World Crassulaceae.  Echeveria come principally from the mountains of Eastern Mexico, although there are plants found from Texas into South America.

The genus Echeveria is named after Atanasio Echeverria illustrator of a projected Flora Mexicana prepared under the direction of Martin Sesse, from 1789 to 1803.  Martin Sesse received a Royal Patent for a botanical expedition to Mexico from Charles III, King of Spain in 1788. Charles III was one of the most enlightened of the late 18th century kings, with widespread cultural and scientific interests. Unfortunately, he died shortly after giving the Patent, and before supplying any money. Sesse went on with the expedition, and although chronically short of funds, and often sick and hungry, with Jose Mocino, Atanasio Echeverria, and others, collected hundreds of plants over a 15 year period. The three returned to Spain, expecting

to become famous and publish their Flora Mexicana, only to be ignored by the King.

Sesse returned to his land holdings; Mocino went to work at the Museum of Natural History in Madrid, and Echeverria was hired as an artist’s assistant.

Mocino sent the original drawings to the famous botanist Alphonse De Candolle as Napoleon marched on Madrid. The originals were lost in the confusion of the Napoleonic wars, but the drawings were saved by Alphonse De Candolle, who hired 120 draftsmen to work for 10 days making several sets of precise tracings of Echeverria’s drawings. De Candolle also named the genus in a lecture in 1827, first publishing it in 1828.

Coming from mountainous regions, Echeveria prefer well drained soil, and good ventilation. They also prefer cooler night temperatures, looking their best from late winter through spring. The plants swell with the winter rains, and as growth starts the colors become more intense.

With time, most Echeveria offset between older leaves. These offsets can be removed, the bottom­most leaves of the offset removed, and the stem and remaining leaves planted as soon as the cut stem is dry. The terminal rosette should also be periodically removed and restarted in the same way, with all the dead leaves removed.

Photos in Cactus Chronicle:

Echeveria agavoides cv ‘Ebony’, Echeveria etna, Echeveria subrigida,

Echeveria 'Blue Curls', Echeveria lilacina, 

  References:

John Pilbeam, The genus Echeverias, 2008

L. Schulz and A. Kapitany, Echeveria Cultivars, 2005

Tom Glavich May 2005 - Edited by Steve Frieze, May 2011

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Echinocactus - July 2015, November 2010, April 2008 & 2007

Echinocactus is Latin for "spiny" cactus or "hedgehog" cactus, both of which refer to the prominent, very sharp spines found in every species. The genus has roughly 6-10 species in a range that covers all of the Southwestern US from Death Valley to Oklahoma and Texas, as well as the Sonoran and Chihuahuan deserts of Mexico. There are two species native to the US, one covering the western half of the Southwest and the other covering the eastern half. E. texensis, commonly called the Horse Crippler, is from Texas, New Mexico, eastern Arizona, Oklahoma, and northern Mexico. E. polycephalus is a California native, as well as occurring in Nevada, Arizona, and northern Mexico. It is among the most heavily cloaked in spines of any cactus.

The most famous and widely grown species, E. grusonii (Golden Barrel), is also the rarest and most restricted in the wild. There is a link between the two as large numbers of Golden Barrels were dug out of the wild for the horticultural trade. Thankfully large nursery grown specimens are readily available today, reducing the pressure on the remaining plants. Unfortunately, this already threatened species was dealt a more serious blow in the 1990's when the Zimapan Dam was built in the heart of this species range. Countless plants were destroyed when the lake created by the dam submerged prime E. grusonii habitat.

While some species are extremely cold tolerant (i.e. the native US species) and others less so, all species of Echinocactus can handle winter temperatures in the Los Angeles region. They do well in the ground, though good drainage is a must as most species don't like our wet winters. They also do well as large potted specimens, requiring normal cactus care.  Echinocactus has wooly fruit.

--Kyle Williams

Photo in Cactus Chronicle:

Echinocactus polycephalus

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Echinocereus - April 2013 & 2012, March 2011,  September 2009, May 2007, March 2006

Echinocereus species can be found throughout the Western United States, and the range of species stretches through the American west and through Northern and Central Mexico to about Mexico City. As might be expected from a genus covering such a large range, Echinocereus are extremely varied in form, ranging from nearly spineless green balls such as E. knippelianus, to very spiny short columnar species such as E. engelmannii, to pencil thin sticks such a E. poselgeri.

In general, Echinocereus is an under-appreciated genus. Most growers have one or two, but having killed a few in their early collecting days, usually because of over watering, concentrate on other genera. Most of the species are in fact easy to grow. Many of the species are quite variable, and exhibit different spination and flower colors depending on the local environment. As a result, a large number of species were named. These are being reduced to a more conservative 30 to 50 species. The varieties and local growth forms provide an enormous range of interesting plants to grow.

Most Echinocereus have spectacular flowers, giving rise to such common names as Claret Cup, Strawberry Cactus, Calico Cactus. These common names are often attached to more than one species.  Echinocereus flowers erupt through the skin, leaving scars. Offsets also erupt through the skin.

Propagation from cuttings is relatively easy, but attention to cleanliness is important. Use of Rootone, or another rooting compound containing a fungicide helps ensure success.

A very popular species of Echinocereus, often found in the shows, is pectinatus v. rubispinus. This plants produces a vibrant rose-colored flower during the spring and its spines retain a reddish tinge throughout the year.

Echinocereus viridiflorus v. canus is a gorgeous plant that produces stiff white spines tinged with red in the mature specimen and develops greenish flowers during the spring season. This plant originates from the Trans-Pecos area of Texas.

Photos in Cactus Chronicle:

 Echinocereus viridiflorus v. canus, Echinocereus pectinatus v. rubispinus,

Vince Basta's Echinocereus baileyi  in the 15th InterCity Show, 

References:

D. Hunt, The New Cactus Lexicon, 

C. Innes and C. Glass, Cacti

Tom Glavitch, 2004 

Edited Steve Frieze, 2011

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Echinofossulocactus - July 2017

Stenocactus and Echinofossulocactus are the same genus. The name of this easy to grow and uniquely ribbed genus has been a subject of contention since the 19th century. The genus was originally described in 1841 by George Lawrence, but the description was invalid. It was redescribed in 1898 by Karl Schumann. Various attempts to straighten out the names went on for the next hundred years. The name Stenocactus seems to have finally triumphed.

Echino traces to Echinus, which is Latin for Hedgehog, a spiny porcupine-like rodent from Europe, and also, equally likely, and much closer in appearance, a spiny, edible sea urchin from the Mediterranean. Stenos is Greek for narrow, an obvious referral to the many narrow ribs on almost all of the species.

They are all spiny plants, collected much more for the appearance of the spines and the wonderful curved ribs than their flowers, although the flowers can be quite showy.  Many species are noteworthy as being among the very first cactus of the year to bloom. It happens as early as January in our climate. All of the species (there are ten) are very variable, and as a result, there are numerous varieties and forms that can enhance any collection. Most of the species are reasonably small, flowering at two years, when only an inch or so in diameter. A good  representative collection can be kept on a table.

Stenocactus are native to Central to Northern Mexico. The genus is closely related to Ferocactus, differing by the lack of nectar glands, the lack of a ring of hairs above the stamens, and size.

Stenocactus grow in grass lands, and need some protection from full sun.  They are easy to grow, putting on most of their body weight each year in the early spring to summer. Plants growing outdoors will grow slowly during the winter using just the water from winter rains. It is important not to fertilize during the darker days of December, January or February, or etoliation or stretching of the body will occur. The narrow ribs, the wooly areoles, and the dense spines are an ideal habitat for mealy bugs. Frequent inspection of the plants will prevent them from spreading. Older plants sometimes get corky near the base. Keeping the plant in continuous growth delays this, but in some species the cork is inevitable.

Identifying the species of an Stenocactus is as difficult as identifying the genus is easy. For the most part, they tend to look alike, however the size and shape of the spines is quite distinctive for many species.

​-- Kyle Williams

Photos in Cactus Chronicle:

​ Stenocactus vaupelianus, Stenocactus sp. ‘Palmillas’,

  Stenocactus sp. ‘Palmillas’

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Echinomastus - March 2015, August 2014

Echinomastus has about six to nine species in northern Mexico and the United States, particularly in Arizona, Texas, and adjacent parts of Mexico. Most species are covered in dense spines. Interestingly, the various species could easily be mistaken for other genera at first glance. E. johnsonii resembles Ferocactus, E. mariposensis looks like a Mammillaria, while 

E. erectocentrus could be mistaken for an Echinocereus. The reality is that Echinomastus is most closely related to Sclerocactus. In cultivation they take typical cactus care, and most are reasonably to very cold tolerant, certainly able to withstand any cold snaps in our region.

Photos in Cactus Chronicle:

Echinomastus erectocentrus, Echinomastus johnsonii

-- Kyle Williams

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Echinopsis - March 2017, May 2012 and 2010, May-June 2008, June 2007

     (including Lobivia) - April 2018

Most cacti have attractive flowers, but in general we grow them for the look of the plant itself. Echinopsis are an exception to this. It is a genus of nearly 200 species and hundreds more cultivars. Most plants are small to medium columnar cacti that are green and fairly nondescript, although some species can reach 15 feet or more in height. They are generally ignored when made available for sale if they aren’t in flower. However, come bloom time they produce some of the most stunning flowers of any cacti.

This is enhanced by the extensive breeding that has been done among this genus. Modern taxonomic research has found that several genera of cacti belong in Echinopsis, most notably Lobivia and Trichocereus.

The standard Echinopsis flower is a few inches across and born on a long tube, giving it a trumpet like appearance. Many of the wild species have white flowers and bloom at night, but breeding has produced an array of colors that include red, yellow, orange, pink, and every color in between (as well as multicolor flowers). Some modern hybrids have been bred to produce flowers eight inches or more in diameter! An especially nice feature of these plants is they often produce flowers in large clusters which produce an amazing display.

Not all species and cultivars have plain plants. Most of the Lobivia group are small and distinctive even without flowers. Plants like Echinopsis ‘Fuzzy Navel’ and ‘Haku Jo’ have attractive spines and tufts of white hair. This gives you a handsome looking plant even in times when it isn’t flowering. The San Pedro Cactus, E. pachanoi, is a great choice for a large columnar cactus for the landscape which requires little to no special care. This cactus is also famous as a source of mescaline, the same halogenic chemical found in Peyote (Lophophora spp.). While I don’t advocate drug use, if people who used Peyote switched to San Pedro cactus it would be beneficial on an ecological level as San Pedro is fast growing and the same plant can be harvested over and over. By contrast, Peyote species are being decimated in the wild as they are a small, slow growing, endangered cactus that is completely destroyed when harvested.

The best way to buy a hybrid Echinopsis is of course to see it in bloom. That’s not always possible, but most of the nicest hybrids are named. So do some research online and write down the name of the types you like then take the time to check tags at a cactus sale. Alternatively, look for sellers who provide pictures at their sales table. Plants are easy to grow and most can live happily in a pot or in your landscape with standard cactus care.

--​ by Kyle Williams 

Photo credits in Cactus Chronicle: Kyle Williams.  Echinopsis (Lobivia) arachnacantha

Echinopsis (Lobivia) famatimensis, Echinopsis (Lobivia) tiegeliana

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Epiphytes - January 2019, May 2011

Epiphytic cacti have a place in every collection. They are easy to grow, requiring remarkably little in the way of care, in general have few spines, and most reward the grower with a spectacular show of flowers.

In habitat, epiphytic cacti root and survive on the tree tops of jungle flora. They are not considered parasites but simply coexist with their hosts while causing no damage. Epiphytes are typically found in the rain forests of Central and South America.

Epiphytic cacti like a richer mix than most ground loving cacti. A frequently used potting mix includes equal parts of potting soil, bark and pumice. Good drainage in the mix is important for good growth. Regular feeding, and a more constant supply of moisture, particularly during the growing season are also important.

Epiphytic cacti are all easily propagated from either cuttings and seed. Cuttings can be taken any time the plant is in active growth, spring being best, but any time during the summer and early fall will also work. Thin stemmed epiphytes, such as most of the Rhipsalis can be planted immediately. Thicker leafed genera should be allowed to dry for a day or two before planting. Zygocactus can be easily propagated from cuttings, but for reasonable success, two segments need to be used rather than one.

Seed of many of the epiphytic cacti, particularly Rhipsalis is hard to come by. One or two species are occassionally offered by the CSSA seed bank. For those with an interest in hybridization, many epiphytes are easily pollinated and cross pollinated both within, and across genera. When the fruit turns color and hardens, it can be harvested, the seeds removed, cleaned, and stored until the following spring.

Photos in Cactus Chronicle:

Rhipsalis pachyptera, Epiphyllum ‘Lemon Custard,’

Hatiora salicornioides

References:

C. Innes and C. Glass, Cacti 

J. Pilbeam, Cacti for the Connoisseur 

Cullmann, Gotz & Groner, The Encyclopedia of Cacti

Tom Glavich December 2002 - - Edited by Steve Frieze, 2011

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Eriosyce - August 2015, July 2012

Eriosyce is a ubiquitous genus found throughout Chile in a wide variety of habitats. This plant group can be found in arid valleys and get much of their moisture from morning fogs and other light forms of precipitation. They can also be found in sandy dunes in close proximity to the Chilean coast, and in the Andes' mountains at elevations of 6,000 feet or more. It is a somewhat cylindrical plant with prominent ribs. Eriosyce are armed with dense very solid spines of varying color. The opportunity to see Eriosyce aurata with golden spines in the Andes is breathtaking. These plants can be up to three feet in diameter. Eriosyce has many features that make them a close relative of plants in the genus of Neochilenea and Neoporteria.

Eriosyce are a relatively hardy plant that can survive for an indefinite period of time in the rocky crevices found in many Chilean valleys. In habitat, they are considered to be slow growing plants.  

Given the idiosyncratic conditions that Eriosyce face in Chile, one would expect the cultivation of these plants in Southern California to be a difficult, if not an impossible chore. With our frequent winter rains, fogs, and extreme temperatures (especially during the summer) this would seem to be a sizeable challenge for growers. Fortunately, Eriosyce are relatively easy to grow. They react well to the same well drained soil mix, watering, and fertilization schedules that most cacti are subjected to. They also tend to grow many times faster than they would in habitat since they will receive regular moisture and are protected from the extreme conditions that they would be exposed to in habitat. Some species can even be grown in the open ground, as long as the soil is well drained. They do tend to be slower growers than many other genera.

Eriosyce can be propagated from 'pups' (division of clumps). Seed is available from the CSSA seed bank, and most cactus seed houses, and germinate quickly in the spring. They should be started in a moist potting soil, and moved to drier surroundings after germination. 

Eriosyce are well worth growing and will produce spectacular plants as they mature.

Photos in Cactus Chronicle:

Eriosyce aurata (golden spine), Eriosyce taltaensis,

Eriosyce subgibbosa ssp. subgibbosa

References:

Schulz, R., Copiapoa 2006,  

Kattermann, F., Eriosyce The genus revised and amplified

-- Steven Frieze June 2012

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Escobaria - February 2017, July 2014

Escobaria is a moderate sized genera of approximately 23 species of small North American cacti similar in appearance to Mammillaria and were originally included in that genus. They share in common a small, mostly globular, stature and an incredible level of cold tolerance, at least in some species. Escobaria vivipara and E. missouriensis are particularly widespread species covering most of western and midwestern North America. In fact, the native range of E. vivipara extends all the way into Canada, a feat matched only by a few species of Opuntia. This cold tolerance allows people in even the coldest climates to grow these species outdoors.

While all plants in this group are relatively small, many can form good sized clumps in time (much like Mammillaria). Some of the variation between species include having globular plants and more cylindrical, upright plants. Flowers vary from yellow to pink. Some species are covered in dense white spines while others are more sparsely covered, allowing the green body of the plant to shine through. A large number of species produce tap roots. Cultivation is similar to Mammillaria and other small cacti. While some members of these genera are renowned for their cold tolerance, keep in mind many species come from warm climates. Of course that isn't much of an issue for us in California, but anyone growing them in cold climates needs to make sure they pick the cold tolerant species. Most species take general cactus care and do well in smaller pots, and so make nice additions to any collection.

Escobaria is more closely related to Coryphantha and Mammillaria than to Acharagma. In fact many botanists feel that Escobaria should not be recognized as a distinct genus, instead lumping all the species in Coryphantha itself. This is what the authors of "The Flora of North America", the field guide to all the plants of the USA and Canada, chose to do. To make it even more complicated, there is evidence to suggest that Coryphantha shouldn't be a genus either and should all be considered species of Mammillaria! Coryphantha and Escobaria differ from Mammillaria largely in flowering on new growth while Mammillaria blooms primarily on previous year's growth. Coryphantha and Escobaria differ from each other only by details of the seeds. Confused yet? Don’t worry, the important thing is to learn about these plants and just call them a name you are comfortable with until the botanists sort out the relationship issues. Don't be shocked, however, if one day we call all Escobaria Mammillaria once again.

-- Kyle Williams

​Photos in Cactus Chronicle:

 Escobaria missouriensis, Escobaria minima

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Espostoa - October 2018, June 2009

Espostoa is an example of the most hardy of the columnar cacti. Found in the Peruvian and Ecuadorian Andes, the genus Espostoas, can tolerate cooler temperatures and are a fine landscape plant in addition to a prize specimen in a collection. Most species in this genus have a prolific mass of white hair and an extensive number of spines that are sometimes covered by the hair. Espostoas flourish in full sun (caution is advised in the hottest areas) and in well drained soil.

Columnar cacti are robust growers, given adequate water, fertilizer, root room and support. They expect more nitrogen in their soil and more water than most globular cacti, when they are growing. They do well in normal cactus mix, as long as they get additional fertilization.

Photos in Cactus Chronicle:

Espostoa melanostele

References:

D C. Zappi, Pilosocereus

D. Hunt, The New Cactus Lexicon

Tom Glavich August 2004 - Edited by Steven Frieze, 2009

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Euphorbia - March 2017, August 2017, July 2016, October 2014, July 2013, September 2012, June 2010, 

                            April 2009, August 2007

Euphorbias are among the most successful of the plant families, covering an amazing geographical and environmental range. In horticulture, they span the range from English Garden plants to trees, stem succulents, geophytic miniatures, to medusoid globulars to caudiciforms.

Caudiciform euphorbias are plants that possess a swollen base or root to store water and nutrients through dry periods that may last from several months to years . When the rains finally arrive, the stored water and energy give them a head start over the surrounding vegetation.

Although many caudiciform Euphorbias are very easy to grow, with the swollen root making them very tolerant of under watering, some are very difficult, turning immediately to mush when over watered, or watered out of season. Care must be given in watering, keeping them warm and wet while growing, and cooler and dry when dormant. Euphorbias from tropical areas (Madagascar, and central Africa) are particularly prone to rot if left cold and damp while dormant. Protection is mandatory if your plants are to survive the cold weather. Placing them in a greenhouse, or even a garage for a month or two in the middle of the winter will greatly increase their endurance potential.

Most caudiciform Euphorbias are easy to propagate. The green stems can be removed, left to dry for at least week or even a bit more, and then replanted. The newly planted stems take a few weeks to establish, and then start growing.

Some cuttings will not form caudexes unless double cut. Once growth is strong, the top of the green shoot needs to be cut off again to force the plant to start a caudex. Some species form a perfectly symmetrical caudex when grown from seed, but form distorted (but often more interesting) caudexes when grown from cuttings.

In collections or when entered into shows, the caudexes of these plant are often raised above the soil line to expose the intricate and exotic root system that are typically submerged in habitat. Once exposed, the caudex will no longer grow or expand at the same rate they would if submerged below the soil line.

Euphorbia knuthii is a widely grown species that produces branches that, if not trimmed, can reach two feet in length.

A very highly prized species is Euphorbia cylindrifolia v. tuberifera. This species originates from Madagascar. When mature, the plant forms a round to spherical caudex-tuber from which arms protrude. The leaves are cylinder-like.

Euphorbia persistens from Mozambique and Northern South Africa has spectacular patterned stems from a well developed caudex. More tropical and more difficult than some, it makes a wonderful specimen with age.

Euphorbia stellata is another South African species, similar in appearance and nearly as easy to grow. It too makes a caudex quickly.

Euphorbia squarrosa is one of the classic caudiciform species. Easily grown from double cut cuttings, it rapidly forms a great caudex. It tolerates being outdoors in Southern California without much protection even during the rainy season. It is native to South Africa.

Euphorbia capsaintemariensis is native to Madagascar and can be found in the southern most point in this island country in Cap Saint Marie. This euphorbia comes from a very sunny area with substantial amounts of wind. Plants in habitat often have a wind-swept look

Lastly, Euphorbia ambovombensis is still another unique Madagascan plant that forms a sizeable caudex in a short period of time and produces handsome branches and leaf structure are almost burgundy in sufficient sun.

Photos in Cactus Chronicle:

Euphorbia ambovombensis, Euphorbia capsaintemariensis, Euphorbia cylindrifolia v. tuberifera

Euphorbia squarrosa, Euphorbia stellata, Euphorbia persistens, Euphorbia knuthii

References

Gordon Rowley - Caudiciform and Pachycaul Succulents 

Herman Schwartz - The Euphorbia Journals

by Tom Glavich May 2002 

Edited by Steve Frieze, September 2012

Ferocactus - July 2015, September 2011, November 2009, April 2008 & 2007

Ferocactus is medium sized genus, with about 40 members and centered in Mexico, with a few species native to California and the Southwest, and a few to Guatemala.

With age, Ferocactus generally get to be very large plants, particularly when grown in the ground. Fortunately, they are fairly slow growers and when grown in pots, they will stay at a comfortable size for many years. Although there are only about 40 species, many of them are fairly variable, with widely varying spine lengths, shapes, textures and colors, depending on the specific locality.

Ferocactus are easily grown, and most are perfectly happy outdoors without protection year round in Southern California. A normal well draining potting mix will do well. They need sun to bring out the colors and textures of the spines.

Ferocactus are easily raised from seed. Planting is most successful when done in April or May. The seedlings grow slowly at first, but soon take off. There are several advantages to growing Ferocactus from seed. The first is that the selection of type localities and spine variations is far greater than you will ever see at a plant show or sale. The second and most important is that you get to grow the plant through its awkward juvenile growth. During the second year Ferocactus spines grow completely out of proportion to the Ferocactus body. A Ferocactus that will eventually be a foot in diameter, and 4 feet tall with 3 or four inch spines, will have as a seedling a body less than an inch in diameter, with spines an inch or more long.

Some of my favorite species include:

Ferocactus chrysacanthus from Baja California has dense golden spines. It becomes a spectacular species when it grows to about 8 inches in diameter. It will eventually grow to 3 feet tall.

Ferocactus emoryi is endemic to Arizona and Sonora Mexico, and shown below has long red spines that can vary from straight to hooked.

Ferocactus wislizenii, another Baja species has flat spines. It grows more in the winter than the summer.

Lastly, we should mention Ferocactus glaucescens a stunning plant with prominent golden yellow spines and a glaucous blue body. This Ferocactus can be found in Hildago Mexico in the limestone hills.

Photos in Cactus Chronicle:

Ferocactus glaucescens, Ferocactus wislizenii, Ferocactus chrysacanthus,

Ferocactus reppenhagenii, Ferocactus latispinus v spiralis, Ferocactus emoryi

Reference:

The New Cactus Lexicon, David Hunt

Tom Glavich, January 2002

 Edited by Steve Frieze, September 2011

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Ficus & Ficus caudiciform - September 2013, June 2009, April 2008 & 2007, September 2006

The genus Ficus includes a broad groups of plants that includes edible figs and a variety of houseplants. Many species are succulent in nature and have a tendency to form a basal caudex.

Two of the more prominent succulent species are Ficus petiolaris (including F. palmeri and F. brandegeei) from Mexico, and F. vasta from east  Africa and Arabia.

The succulent species of Ficus are sometimes called rock figs because they are seen in habitat growing on rocky cliffs or rock outcroppings. Under these conditions the will generate a complex root systems as the roots work their way to the soil. They make excellent rock succulent bonsai specimens.

Water your Ficus specimen throughout the year especially in the growing season. As with most succulent plants, use a well drained soil mix. The more room a ficus has to grow the faster it will attain a mature status. Propagation of Ficus is mostly from seeds.

References

M. & G. Irish, Agaves, Yuccas and Related Plants

U. Eggli ed. Monocotyledons. Dicoledons

Tom Glavich July 2005 

Edited by Steven Frieze, 2009

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Fockea - August 2014, October 2007

The Apocynaceae is one of the largest of all plant families, with familiar plants such as Milkweed, Plumeria, and Oleanders. People may also recognize the name Asclepiadaceae, which is an old name for some members of the group. It is very popular with succulent enthusiasts as the family has hundreds succulent species including trees, shrubs, caudiciform vines, and even cactus like- plants. Almost every succulent enthusiast will have at least one member of the family in their collection, whether it be a Pachypodium, Adenium, Stapeliad, or Southern African tuberous caudiciform Apocynaceae, specifically the genera Fockea.

Fockea is probably the most commonly cultivated genera of the three, with F. edulis found in the collections of most caudiciform succulent enthusiasts. All six species in the genus form a thick tuberous root that is normally buried below the soil in nature, but is commonly raised in cultivation since it is the most distinctive feature of the plants. The upper part of the plant is a vine. Much of the variation between species is in regards to leaf shape, with some species having short oval leaves, some having very narrow almost linear leaves, and others having very wavy leaves. These wavy, or undulate, leaves are most prominent in Fockea capensis, and plant commonly but incorrectly grown in cultivation as F. crispa. In other words, there is no F. crispa, and if you have a plant named that please change your label to F. capensis!

Cultivation for the most commonly grown, South African, species of these genera is fairly easy. Treat as a summer growing succulent that doesn't like to dry out completely. Most plants will go dormant or semi-dormant in the winter and shouldn't be watered as often, though they seem fairly tolerant of our wet winters if the soil is well drained. The tubers/caudex grow the fastest when buried, so it is advantageous to grow them that way for several years before raising them.

-- Kyle Williams

Photo in Cactus Chronicle:

Fockea edulis

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Fouquieria - March 2018, September 2014, May 2007

Fouquieria is one of the most distinctive and famous genera of (non-cacti) succulents from Mexico, with one species widespread in the southwestern US and one species reaching into Guatemala. It consists of 11 species and is the only genus it its family, the Fouquieriaceae. All species are woody and covered in spines, with most being pachycaulous shrubs, though some species appear as typical xeric shrubs and at least one species is a tree. Flowers are tubular and orange, red, or white in color. Unlike cacti the spines of Fouquieria do not form immediately on new growth. Instead they form the petiole, or stalk, of the leaf. Once the green part of the leaf falls off the petiole hardens into a sharp spine. These leaves form readily after rains and drop off just as readily when the soil dries out. This allows the plant to maximize photosynthesis during good conditions, but conserve water once drought threatens. 

The only American species is the Ocotillo, Fouquieria splendens, a large shrub with long, straight, very upright branches. This is a very widespread species native from California to Texas and through much of northern Mexico. While not really a pachycaul, its distinctive open, upright shape and cold tolerance (down to the single digits!) makes it popular to grow in arid regions. The orange-red flowers are magnets for hummingbirds. 

Easily the most unusual species in the genus, if not all woody succulents, is F. columnaris, the Boojum Tree. This is one of the most characteristic plants of central Baja California (it also grows in a small area of Sonora), and anyone traveling through the region it grows can't miss these bizarre "Dr. Seuss" plants. They grow to 50 feet or more in height and have few large branches, but the ones it does have often bend and twist into bizarre shapes that look like they come from an alien world! The plant is so distinctive that it was once placed in its own genus, Idria, though that designation is considered incorrect by botanists as it clearly belongs with other Fouquieria. Plants are very fond of water during the growing season and can be fast growing, though some people have problems with them in an especially wet winter when it doesn't want much moisture. Other species such as Fouquieria purpusii and F. macdougalii can be grown as pachycauls in a pot, forming beautiful specimens in time. 

The Fouquieriaceae is unusual for a succulent/pachycaul family in being quite distantly related to any other succulent families. Its closest relatives (Polemoniaceae) are small herbs that frequently grow in xeric regions, but aren't succulent, while most of the other families it is related to are commonly found in the tropics. It does share many similarities with the totally unrelated Didiereaceae, a small Madagascan family also popular with succulent enthusiasts (e.g. Allauaudia and Didierea). These families are completely unrelated, yet both have evolved into similar looking spiny shrubs with ephemeral leaves that grow in very similar desert and dry scrubland habitats. This is a case of convergent evolution, which is the evolution of organisms that look very similar not because of relationship, but because they were subjected to similar climates and other conditions. The same phenomenon can be seen between cacti and succulent Euphorbia.

Photos in Cactus Chronicle --

Fouquieria columnaris, Fouquieria diguetii flowers, Fouquieria splendens

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Frailea - January 2018 & 2016, November 2012, June 2011

The genus Frailea is endemic to South America and can be found in Bolivia, Argentina, Brazil, Paraguay, and Uruguay. They are typically attractive small globose plants that don't exceed two inches in diameter. This genus can be a solitary grower or form cluster depending on the species. Frailea were named from a Spaniard, Manuel Fraile, who spent numerous years maintaining the U.S, Department of Agriculture cactus collection. The spines on Frailea are short and feeble compared to other members of the cactucea family. Frailea often produce a yellow flower which can be larger than the body of the plant itself. They bloom during the heat of the day for just a few hours before they retreat. Frailea are known as cleistogamous plants meaning that the flower often times will not emerge from the plant body and will actually self- pollinate inside the specimen.

Photos in Cactus Chronicle:

Frailea phaeodisca from south of Pedras Altas country side

Frailea castanea, Frailea mammifera

Tom Glavich, February 2002 

Edited by Steve Frieze, June 2011

Gasteria - April 2018, May 2013 & 2012 & 2009, March 2008 & 2007

Gasteria is a popular and easily grown genus that has been collected since the 17th century. Some species look very similar to Aloe while others resemble Haworthia. This is not surprising as these three genera are very closely related. So close in fact that recent evolutionary studies are causing some confusion about where one genus ends and the other begins. That being said, Gasteria can be differientiated morphologically from Aloe and Haworthia by examining the flowers. Gasteria flowers have a distinctive narrow upper portion that expands out to a fat base that resembles a stomach. Sure enough, Gasteria is derived from "gaster" which means "stomach" in Latin.  Interestingly the common name for the species is Ox Tongue, another "digestive" reference!

​Gasteria come in a much greater diversity of sizes than Haworthia, though they are smaller on average than most Aloe. Gasteria ranges in size from about an inch to several feet in diameter. Almost all plants start out with the leaves in two rows (distichous), although most eventually begin to spiral. Gasteria are quite variable in appearance. Collectors need to be cautioned that they have definite juvenile and adult forms, have local variations in appearance, and have form and growth habits that are dependent on the soil type and amount of sunlight. Not realizing this runs you the risk of buying the same species twice!

This genus contains approximately 20-25 species, nearly all native to South Africa (one species ranges into Namibia). Typical natural habitats are humus rich, sandy soils. They grow on dry rocky hillsides and generally grow under larger shrubs particularly when young. They also can be found in rock fissures or in the shade of large rocks. The roots are shallow and thick which helps the plants obtain moisture from barely wet soils, and nourishment from decaying leaves and debris from larger shrubs.

Gasteria cultivation is easy and is nearly identical to that of Haworthia and winter growing Aloe. They are mostly winter and spring growers, but exhibit some growth all year except for the hottest part of the summer. They do well in a range of soil mixes and are more tolerant of organic matter than some succulents. They prefer partial shade, particularly in the afternoon; however the best color is obtained by giving them as much light and sun, short of sunburn, as possible.

Gasteria are generally free from most pests. The one difficulty is ‘black spot’, a fungus that attacks many Gasteria. The fungus is rarely fatal, but causes large unsightly black spots on the leaves. Since the spots are actual damage to the leaves, there is no way to remove the spots. The fungus can be minimized by keeping the leaves dry, and particularly keeping dew off the leaves. Fungicides can be used to prevent this disease, but probably aren't worth the hassle unless you have show quality plants you are concerned about.

 Gasteria are readily propagated from offsets at the base or on flower stalks, which can be simply pulled off and planted. Leaf cuttings will also root easily. Gasteria flowers are often visited by hummingbirds, and these visits often result in pollination. Seed can be collected as soon as the fruits start to dry. Cross pollination can produce interesting plants and many hybrids are available, as are several variegated cultivars. Intergeneric hybrids with Aloe (called X Gasteraloe) and Haworthia (X Gasterhaworthia) are commonly seen.

-- Kyle Williams 

Photos in Cactus Chronicle:

Stomach shaped flowers, Gasteria bicolor, Gasteria Hybrid

Photo credits: Kyle Williams.

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Geohintonia - May 2015

 . . . very rare in the wild, quite uncommon in most collections, and hardly anyone has mature specimens of them that are NOT wild dug.  Sometimes the most obscure plants can make for the most interesting subjects.

Geohintonia mexicana is the sole species in its genus. It is a small, slow growing cactus whose habitat is gypsum hills and cliffs of Nuevo Leon. In many places it is sympatric (grows in the same location as) Aztekium hintonii. Knowing this, it may not surprise you that both Geohintonia mexicana and Aztekium hintonii were discovered by the same people at the same time and were published as new species together in the same scientific paper. Further scientific research into the evolutionary relationships of the cactus family has shown Aztekium and Geohintonia to be very closely related. Visually there is a something of a resemblence between the genera, though Geohintonia is quite distinct in having many more ribs and no wrinkles. Some have gone so far as to suggest Geohintonia could be a hybrid between A. hintonii and Echinocactus grusonii (Golden Barrel Cactus) as they occur in the same area and are related. However, it is much  more reasonable to assume Geohintonia is an evolutionary distinct species that happens to resemble Aztekium and Echinocactus because it is a close relative, not because of some elaborate hybridization theory.

 Cultivation is not overly difficult. They are very, very slow growing cacti, so patience is a must. They can be sensitive to overwatering, but if you can grow an Ariocarpus you should be able to handle these plants. Plants having their roots is most people's preference, but grafting will give you a faster growing plant and less worries about watering. Growing from seed will take many, many years before you get a decent sized plant. Finding these plants for sale on grafted or on their own roots is one of the biggest challenges of all. If you see one for sale at a reasonable price grab it quick! Otherwise it will be gone before you know it.

-- Kyle Williams

Photo in Cactus Chronicle:

Geohintonia mexicana

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Grafted - October 2017

Grafting is the process of taking two or more varieties of related plants and physically combining them into a single functioning plant. Usually, the idea is to put a slow growing or difficult to grow plant on top of an easy, fast growing plant. Why would anyone besides Dr. Frankenstein want to do this? Because grafted plants are almost always easier and faster growing than the desirable plant would be on its own roots. In fact, in certain cases it is literally impossible to grow some plants without grafting.

So you have a rare plant that is notorious for dying if you look at it the wrong way and you want to graft it to increase your odds of success. What do you need to do? First, determine if it is a type of plant that can be grafted. For all intents and purposes you cannot graft Monocots. Succulent Monocots include Aloe, Haworthia, Gasteria, Agave, flowering bulbs, and others. Everything else is a Dicot and can be grafted, at least in theory. Cacti, Euphorbia, Adenium, Pachypodium & Stapeliads are the most commonly grafted succulents. If you are unsure, just Google the name of your plant.

Step two is finding an appropriate rootstock. You want an easy to grow, fast growing, hardy plant with an upright stem that is reasonably thick (to accommodate the desired plant or “scion”). It is absolutely critical that the rootstock be closely related to the desired plant. Generally this means the same plant family (in the botanical sense, again Google if you are unsure). So cacti must be grafted on other cacti, Euphorbias on Euphorbias, etc. There is no single rootstock that is ideal for every plant (even within a family), but there are several popular choices for each group each with their own plusses and minuses.

Step three is to physically graft the plants. Do this during the spring and summer as dormant or semi-dormant plants will not work. Detailed instructions of how to do the graft are beyond the scope of this article. But in short, you need to cut the top off the rootstock, cut the base off the scion then stick the two cut surfaces together. Pressure needs to be applied for a few days to a week, after which if the graft was successful the vascular systems of the plants have fused together and the top will start growing. If it fails you’ll know pretty quickly because the scion will shrivel and fall off. It takes practice and even experts don’t get 100% success.

 — Kyle Williams

Photos in Cactus Chronicle:

Turbinicarpus pseudopectinatus Crest, Euphorbia lactea Crest

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Gymnocactus - September 2016, January 2011

Gymnocactus is a genus that possesses many species.  Recently merged with the genus Turbinicarpus, this plant can be found in central Mexico. It typically contains a thick tap root that can, if watered excessively, generate root rot. Soil drainage is therefore a major consideration in the cultivation of Gymnocactus. Also a concern associated with overwatering is the potential for plant cracking. Gymnocactus viereckii is a species found in many collections. It is a solitary or clustering species with dense spines covering almost all of the plant. The apex of this globose species is typically covered with white wool giving the plant an exotic and special appearance. In habitat, Gymnocactus viereckii grows in higher altitudes on the sides of cliffs in rock cracks. It receives very little nutrients other than from leaves that are caught on a plant's spines. Gymnocactus viereckii produces a magenta flower that is stunning in contrast with the while wool and spines covering this plant.

Gymnocactus mandragora is a solitary plant that may branch if the growing tip of the plant is damaged or intentionally disfigured. Found in Mexico, this plant has hard dense white spines (brown tips) that are spirally arranged around a flattened tubercle. Gymnocactus

mandragora produces a white bloom with a pink midstripe.

Gymnocactus horripilus is a species originating in Mexico that ultimately clusters but at a very slow pace. The central spines of this plant are relatively long and brown which contrasts with the radials that are straight but are white changing to brown/black as they reach the tip. The deep purple flower blooms in the spring and summer.

Photos in Cactus Chronicle:

Gymnocactus horripilus, Gymnocactus mandragora

  References:

D. Hunt, The New Cactus Lexicon 

C. Innes and C. Glass, Cacti

Steve Frieze, January 2011

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Gymnocalycium - April 2019, February 2016, April 2014, September 2012, April 2011, 

                                            January-February 2009, February 2008

Gymnocalycium are among the most popular of cacti, from the novice through the advanced grower. They are easy to grow; flower readily; come in a large number of distinguishable species; look great in flower, in bud, and even when dormant. A well grown plant will often flower several times during the year.

Gymnocalycium is an old genus, first named in 1845. The genus is named for the naked (spineless) calyx (the outermost covering of the bud and lower flower). Most Gymnocalycium are also readily identified by their ‘chins’ beneath the areoles.

The heart of the genus Gymnocalycium is Argentina, although the genus stretches into Southeastern Bolivia, Western Paraguay, Uruguay, and into the Southernmost part of Brazil. For the most part Gymnocalycium are grassland plants, growing and shaded in the grass of the Pampa and Chaco (dry forest) that covers much of Argentina. As a result, most like some protection from full afternoon sun, but need bright light during the day.

Gymnocalycium cultivation is easy. They need a dry rest during the winter; they can take Southern California climate without winter heat, as long as they are dry. They should be fed regularly with a weak general purpose fertilizer when growing. They are tolerant of any well drained soil, but constant wet will cause the roots to rot. Fortunately, they are easy to re-root, with roots generally re-growing in a just few months.

Gymnocalycium are easy to grow from seed, started in a well drained, damp potting mix in a plastic bag covered pot. Germination is fairly rapid, but growth during the first year is slow compared to most Mammillaria and many other genera. Vegetative propagation is also easy. Offsets from clumps can be removed, left to dry for a few days and potted. They generally root within a few weeks.

All the species and all the varieties and forms of Gymnocalycium are worth growing. Flowers range in color from red, pink, cream, white, and tans.

Other interesting species include Gymnocalycium baldianum (red flower), bayrianum, bruchii (pink flower), horstii (pink flower), mesopotamicum, mihanovichii, pungen, ragonesei, saglionis, schroederianum, spegazzinii, and striglianum.

Photos in Cactus Chronicle:

Gymnocalycium pflanzii, Gymnocalycium bruchii, Gymnocalycium baldianum

Gymnocalcium spegazzinii, Gymnocalycium mihanovichii

Reference:  Pilbeam, J., Gymnocalycium, A Collector’s Guide

Tom Glavich September 2004 

Edited, Steve Frieze September 2012

Hamatocactus - August 2018

​For more on Thelocactus click here.  The paragraph below is an excerpt.

Several other genera have been linked to Thelocactus, including Echinomastus, Leuchtenbergia, Glandulicactus, and Ferocactus. In addition the genus Hamatocactus has been bounced around between Thelocactus, Ferocactus, & Hamatocactus with some taxonomists dividing it up between the three, with some species being moved into each genus. More studies of DNA are needed before this can be sorted out.  

-- Kyle Williams

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Haworthia - April 2019, April 2016, March 2013, April 2012, March 2009, May - June 2008

Haworthia retuse/a type - November 2010

Haworthia are native to South Africa, and grow in a winter-rainfall, Mediterranean environment not very different from Southern California. Most are easily grown, preferring some shade and growing mostly in the winter and spring. Many will grow year round if watered properly and maintained at a reasonably warm temperature. Haworthias flower during the spring, and some species will remain in flower for an extended period of time; two months or longer. However, the flowers are small and generally off-white and not particularly notable. Haworthias are grown for their beautiful leaf shapes and colors.

Haworthia in general are tolerant of almost any potting mix, and success has been reported with everything from straight pumice to potting soil-pumice or perlite mixes, to plain potting soil, and even garden soil. They like light fertilization when growing, any balanced fertilizer will do. An application of time release fertilizer in late winter will improve growth from late winter and early spring rains. Healthy Haworthias generally have stiff thick white roots. When repotting, it’s important to inspect the roots for mealy bugs, and for old, dried brown or hollow roots, which are often the source of infection or rot. These should be removed back to healthy tissue. Haworthias are subject to root rot if watered excessively or sit in damp conditions for long periods. The plant is often salvageable by removing the damage roots and other decayed material and then placing it in a rooting medium such as pumice.

The genus Haworthia is divided into three subgenera, and these are further divided into 8 sections. Section Retusae contains the many of the best known plants including, Haworthia retusa, Haworthia comptoniana, Haworthia magnifica, and Haworthia reticulata. These are all characterized by thick fat leaves, with intricate patterns, usually in a lighter green than the main leaf color. Also characteristic of this plant are the transparency of the leaves allowing for photosynthesis to occur within the plant body.

Haworthia retusa is found in the Riverdale area of South Africa under bushes or in similarly protected areas. Haworthia comptoniana. Named after Professor R. H. Compton, this species is endemic to the Willowmore district of South Africa. This species often grows under quartz patch stones and is difficult to locate in the field.

Haworthia magnfica v. splendons like the previous species found in South Africa. This plant grows even to the ground and its coloration helps to camouflage it from damage from insects and other potential predators.

Also found in South Africa, is Haworthia reticulata, a species which has a number of subspecies associated with it. Haworthia reticulata is a liberally clustering plant that will turn reddish-bronze color in bright light.

Photos in Cactus Chronicle:

Haworthia reticulata v. reticulata, Haworthia magnifica v. splendons,

Haworthia comptoniana, Haworthia retusa

References

M. Bayer, Haworthia Revisited

R. Schulz, Haworthia For The Collector

Tom Glavich March 2002, Edited by Steve Frieze, November 2010

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Hoodia - September 2008

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Hoya - September 2007

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Huernia - September 2008

The genus Huernia (family Apocynaceae, subfamily Asclepiadoideae) consists of stem succulents from Eastern and Southern Africa, first described as a genus in 1810. The flowers are five-lobed, usually somewhat more funnel- or bell-shaped than in the closely related genus Stapelia, and often striped vividly in contrasting colours or tones, some glossy, others matte and wrinkled depending on the species concerned. To pollinate, the flowers attract flies by emitting a scent similar to that of carrion. The genus is considered close to the genera Stapelia and Hoodia. The name is in honour of Justin Heurnius (1587–1652) a Dutch missionary who is reputed to have been the first collector of South African Cape plants. His name was actually misspelled by the collector.

Various species of Huernia are considered famine food by the inhabitants of Konso special woreda in southern Ethiopia. The local inhabitants, who call the native species of this genus baqibaqa indiscriminately, eat it with prepared balls of sorghum; they note that baqibaqa tastes relatively good and has no unpleasant side-effects when boiled and consumed. As a result, local farmers encouraged it to grow on stone walls forming the terraces, where it does not compete with other crops.

Phylogenetic studies have shown the genus to be monophyletic, and most closely related to the Tavaresia genus, and to a widespread branch of stapeliads comprising the genera Orbea, Piaranthus and Stapelia.

​-- from Wikipedia

Idria - May 2007

This plant hails from Mexico and Baja California.  Idria columnaris is strictly a winter grower, or at least that seems to be the rule and not the exception. Idria is monotypic, meaning that it is the sole representative of the genus. 

I. columnaris, sometimes referred to as the "boojum tree" is a slow growing pachycaul that may reach 50 or more feet in habitat. Although often thought of as slow growing, I have seen a 3 year old, reach 2 inches in diameter and 6 inches in height. According to Miles Anderson and Terry Hewitt, I. columnaris can take 25 degrees for a brief period. Although this plant will undoubtedly survive a cold spell in the mid 20s, it tends to set the plant back a bit. Possibly the best remedy would be to give this highly coveted caudiciform daytime warmth in the greenhouse, even if no heat can be provided at night. Grown only from seed, the Idria produces flowers on older specimens and on plants over 6 feet tall.

Courtesy of Blaire Hoover, 3/18/2004

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Ipomea - October 2009

Ipomea caudiciform - October 2007

coming soon

Jatropha - October 2018, July 2007

There are two types of flowers in the Euphorbiaceae. The genus Jatropa has "normal" flowers with 5 sepals; petals are absent. The flowers are imperfect and the plants are monoecious. Both male and female flowers are seen in this inflorescence. 

Lithops - August 2015, April 2009, October 2006

Lithops are intriguing plants that originate from South Africa and Namibia. In habitat they are accustomed to long periods of drought and extremely hot conditions. Popularly known as “living stones” due to their resemblance to polished pebbles, these plants are so well camouflaged in habitat that animals are unable to detect them.

Lithops are actually a pair of leaves that have adapted to their environment in a unique manner. In order to preserve moisture – most plants receive little or no rainfall for extended periods of time – they have lost the typical leaf appearance and instead have evolved a smooth rounded appearance, hence their association with stones or pebbles.

The rounded stone-like appearance also helps protect them as a food source. In habitat, Lithops are well adapted also because they imitate the surrounding colors and soil texture.  They may be virtually invisible at times.

Most lithops produce flowers, typically in the spring or early fall. The yellow and white flowers are daisy-like and appear in the top of each lithop head as shown in photo at the left.

Lithops are available from many cactus and succulent nurseries and can be capable grown with a little care and concern. The three biggest problems associated with growing lithops are overwatering, poor ventilation, and impatience. Place your collection in a south facing locaton under protected conditions (greenhouse or window sill). 

Make sure that there is adequate air flow and lots of light. The ideal spot for growing lithops is in a protected area that is south facing. Lithops are notoriously slow growing, so don’t expect your plant to grow quickly.

Make sure that you stop watering your plants sometime in late fall til mid spring (when the nights start to warm up). During the spring, lithops will generate a new body, consuming the moisture and nutrients from the old “leaves”

-- Steven Frieze, 2009

Photos in Cactus Chronicle:

Lithops pseudotruncatella v. elisabethiae, 

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Lobivia - April 2018, May 2010, May - June 2008, June 2007

Lobivia densispina grows in clusters from a large tap root. The spines form a close network that shades and in many cases almost hides the plant body. The flowers vary from yellow to orange and red.

Lobivia ferox almost looks like Thelocactus. It is globular, usually singular, and grows to 8 inches in diameter. It has.

-- By Tom Glavich September 2004, Edited by Steve Frieze May 2010

Photo in Cactus Chronicle:

Lobivia densispina

See Echinopsis for more information

Mammillaria - January 2012, February 2011, January 2008

  with colored (not white) spines - September 2018

  without hooked spines - April 2017, January 2014

  cluster - February 2015, March 2009

  with hooked spines - October 2016, January 2010

Mammillaria is one of the larger genera in the Cactus family, and one of the most variable, with some members remaining as solitary columns or globular for their entire lives while other develop into massive clusters over time. There is incredible variability in the genus with some species maintaining a small footprint ­ almost fingernail size. Other species grow into globular plants of substantial size. Mammillarias generate two types of spine; straight or hooked. It is important to note that all cacti start out as a single head and stay so for varying lengths of time depending on the conditions and growth patterns for a particular species.

A Mammillaria is often one of the first cacti that a beginning grower buys. They are available, often for less than a dollar, at discount stores, and for just a bit more at local home centers and discount stores. A credit to the toughness of these plants, is that many survive for years in spite of all sorts of abuse and neglect. Many inexpensive purchases at local chain stores have grown on to be become show plants, the quality of the plant maturing with the skill and experience of the grower. In part because they are so generous with flowers and seeds, and the seeds germinate so readily, many rare species end up in unlikely places like home centers, supermarkets, and hardware stores. It’s worth keeping an eye out for unusual specimens, but beware of names found on discount store plants.

The secrets to good growth are a continual supply of water and fertilizer during the growing season (typically from March through October), strong light, intense heat if available, and maintenance of a clean and insect free growing environment. Many people starve and under water their plants, in attempt to avoid rot. Most Mammillaria will take quite a bit of water and fertilizer when in growth. During the summer heat growth slows for a time, picking up again when the weather cools, before stopping around Thanksgiving. Almost all Mammillaria will do just fine in Southern California, with little or no winter protection, as long as they are potted in a freely draining potting mix.

The appearance of white mealy bug egg cases (Mammillaria’s worst enemy) on the tips of the spines or the appearance of ants means that mealy bugs are sucking the sap and life of the plant. Immediate treatment is required, with a thorough washing, and spraying with an insecticide. A less toxic solution is to soak the entire plant in soapy water overnight, followed by a good rinse with water from a hose.

Mammillaria species differ radically. Some species produce hooked spines whiles other are either straight or feathery. Some species have hair or wool in the axils between the tubercles that provide protection against extreme sunlight.  Most Mammillarias originate in Mexico, although there are 10 species found in the south western portion of the United States. There are even a few species that extend as far north as Canada.

A distinguishing feature of all Mammillarias is that flowers appear at the point of two tubercles and form a ring around that particular stem of the plant. Flowers appear on the previous year's growth. A smooth brilliant red club­shaped berry appears if flowers are fertilized.

Photos in Cactus Chronicle:

Mammillaria bocasana, Mammillaria crucigera subsp. tlalocii,

Mammillaria gemnispina, Mammillaria perbella

References:

J. Pilbeam, Mammillaria

David Hunt, The New Cactus Lexicon

Tom Glavich May 2003 

Edited by Steven Frieze, January 2012

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Matucana - July 2018, February 2013, October 2007

Matucana is a Peruvian cactus, found in the Western foothills and lower mountain slopes and valleys of the Andes. This plant is not as well known as many other South American cacti, even though they have wonderful body colors, spines and flowers.  Matucana grows fairly rapidly.  The general culture is similar to most other South American cacti. They need water when growing in the summer but need to be kept dry when cold. They do fine, unprotected in Southern California winters. 

Matucana can be quite variable in appearance, with some species being covered in dense long spines and others spineless or nearly so. Some are globular and others upright. Probably the most popular species is Matucana madisoniorum, a small attractive species with distinctive green skin, few spines, and interesting folds and ridges. One thing that adds to the popularity of this species is its passing resemblance to Lophophora or Peyote. Owing Lophophora is illegal (especially in California) while Matucana is not, so it can function as something of a substitute in people’s collections.

Matucana has posed taxonomic problems since its discovery. The genus Matucana was originally described by Britton and Rose in their book, The Cactaceae, published in 1922. The typical species is Matucana haynei, a plant known since the 1840s, under several different names. The genus is named after Matucana, the town near which the plant was originally found. In their original publication, Britton and Rose commented on the close resemblance of the flowers to Borzicactus, the size, shape, and color being the same. In 1960 Myron Kimnach moved the entire genus to Borzicactus.  Frederich Ritter re-segregated it in 1966, with the addition of some new species, which is the way it can be found in most recently printed references, picture collections and catalogs. There may be as many as 15 or 16 species, depending on the reference. Many of the species have a number of varieties, forms and cultivars, many of which are indistinguishable. Most of the species are very variable.

​-- Kyle Williams  

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Mediolobivia - May - June 2008, June 2007

research in progress

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Melocactus - August 2017, July 2010, August 2007

Melocactus, from Brazil, Mexico, Central America and the Caribbean, is one of the very first genera of Cacti described by Linnaeus in 1753. His work, Species Plantarum, is considered the official starting point of modern botany, specifically the botanical names of plants as we recognize them today. Although popular in cultivation, many of the species are endangered in the wild.

Melocactus has a very unusual growth habit that is nearly unique among cacti (only Discocactus is similar). When young the plant looks like a run of the mill globular green cactus. The kind of cactus you might not even give a second glace to in a nursery. However, after several years of growth a sudden, radical, change occurs and the cephalium is produced. The cephalium is a structure that produces in the wild nothing but flowers, fruit, and small spines. It has no chlorophyll and is smaller in diameter than the main body of the plant. Specifically, this  structure is formed on top of the main body of the plant. The body of the plant stops growing upwards and all growth for the rest of the plant’s life will be in the cephalium. This isn’t like Agave which dies after flowering. A cephalium will continue to grow and flower for decades with the plant as happy as can be. As mentioned above, one other genus of cactus produces a similar cephalium, Discocactus. Fortunately, the genera are fairly easy to tell apart as Discocactus have a flattened top and small cephalium with wool, plus large fragrant night blooming flowers. Melocactus are often larger, rounder, and can form a very tall cephalium. The cephalium produces tiny flowers and small spines but not copious wool.

Melocactus is from dry tropical regions and generally not true deserts. They thrive in hot humid climates where even the nights stay quite warm. However, they are fine in our Mediterranean climate with cool summer nights so long as we give them some extra warmth in the winter months. They can be grown outdoors here, but really prefer protection of night temperatures below 50F if possible. They like more moisture than similar looking non-tropical cacti, but don't keep them wet, especially in the winter.

-Kyle Williams

Photos in Cactus Chronicle:

A very old Melocactus, Melocactus peruvianus, Juvenile Melocactus matanzanus

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Mesembryanthemaceae (Mesembs) - May 2014, June 2011

 Mesembryanthemaceae is one of the longest and ugliest plant family names. Thankfully, botanists don't call it that anymore. Now we refer to the family as the Aizoaceae. You can informally call them Mesembs as well. The change in name is due in part to the uniting of plants formally in different families. The Aizoaceae contains over 130 genera and nearly 2000 species, making it as big or bigger than the Cactaceae. Most Aizoaceae are fleshy and succulent plants. While most species that we grow are very highly succulent, such as Lithops, Faucaria, or Ice Plant (Carpobrotus), some genera are just slightly succulent and more resemble a typical herb.

Aizoaceae have a worldwide distribution in arid regions, including two species native to California. Despite the family technically being worldwide, the overwhelming number of genera and species (96%) come from southern Africa. It is interesting to compare the Cactaceae with the Aizoaceae in that both families have developed extreme succulence in order to survive their arid habitats, however how they went about it shows that evolution can converge on a basic idea in two different ways. Cacti have evolved thick fleshy stems that store water during lean times while also getting rid big green leaves (except in Pereskia and a few other species) that lose a lot of water on hot days. The leaves of a cactus have been turned into the spines that protect the plant from predators. The Aizoaceae took a different path. The stems have been nearly lost in many species (e.g. Lithops), or tend to be fairly thin and not much for water storage. The leaves have become extremely fleshy to the point where they are practically balloons filled with water. Whereas Cacti "fight" their predators by forming big sharp spines, the small stemless Aizoaceae hide from them by blending into their surroundings. They in essence become indistinguishable from rocks and are therefore ignored by thirsty predators. Another strategy employed by many Aizoaceae is to grow in the cracks of rocks. That gets them away from bigger, faster growing shrubs and grasses that would shade them out, but also helps them survive against predators. If a thirsty animal were to find one of these in the ground they could eat the whole thing killing it. If they find one wedged in a rock they might be able to eat the exposed leaves but the base of the plant would be protected, allowing the plant to regrow.

Our climate is great for growing most Mesembs, though, with nearly 2000 species, general advice for growing all of them is impossible to give. However, for the fleshy leaved South African species basic advice can be given. First of all, you need to know if your plant comes from the winter rainfall regions (which is very similar to our own climate) or from summer rainfall regions. For winter growers such as Conophytum, Cheiridopsis, or Fenestraria you can embrace our climate by letting the winter rains water them from fall through spring and then keeping them totally dry (or nearly so) during the summer. For summer growers like Faucaria, Pleiospilos, or Lithops relatives like Argyroderma and Tanquana keep them totally dry in the winter and water in the summer, except when it is very hot out at which time they should be kept dry again. With few exceptions no Mesemb wants to be wet for any length of time. So if our winters are especially rainy even the winter growers might need some protection. Similarly, don't soak your summer growers too often even during the growing season. Please realize that summer and winter growers may vary within a genus. For example, Titanopsis calcarea is a summer grower while T. hugoschlecteri is a winter grower. The plants don't care what genus they are, they care about the climate where they live in nature. When in doubt look it up! 

Photos in Cactus Chronicle:

Conophytum obcordellum, Fucaria tirgina 

-- Kyle Williams

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Miniatures - May 2018 & 2017 & 2016, October 2015, November 2014, September 2010

This month we aren't focusing on a specific genus or family of plants. Instead we will look at a growth form that everyone has space to grow, miniatures! It is important to note that because we are dealing with a descriptive term, not a botanical one, there is no hard and fast rule for what a miniature plant is. The closest we have is a pot size rule, which limits the maximum pot size to 3 inches diameter and requires the plants to be naturally small, not just a juvenile. For our meeting we'll be a little more relaxed and allow juvenile forms, within reason of course.

A miniature is not necessarily the same thing as a dwarf plant. For example, a number of Agave species are considered dwarf sized because they only get a couple feet in diameter. That is very small compared to a huge A. americana that can be 10 feet or more across, but isn't really what we mean by miniature. Another example would be a Bursera microphylla, the Elephant Tree, which can form a huge shrub or small tree. It is often grown as a caudiciform bonsai just a couple feet tall. That plant has been dwarfed but it still is not a miniature!

So what are some examples of true miniatures? Two great examples for cacti would be Copiapoa laui and Blossfeldia liliputana, the two smallest species in the family. They both form small clumps, but individual heads are usually 1⁄2" or less in diameter. Even slightly bigger species such as Ortegocactus macdougallii, Mammillaria theresae, or Puna clavaroides are ideal miniatures so long as the clump hasn't become too big.

While there are quite a number of miniature cacti, the number of miniature (non-cactus) succulents is even bigger. One of the best places to look for miniatures is among the mesembs. Some species of Conophytum are the very definition of miniature, in that some species such as C. pellucidum are so small that you could have upwards of 100 heads in a three inch pot! Many species of Lithops work well too. Also consider some of the mesembs that aren't living stones types such as Titanopsis or Aloinopsis species. Outside mesembs, consider some of the smallest Crassula, Haworthia, Sedum, or Avonia. These are just suggestions, but if you have a plant that looks good and proportional in a three inch or smaller pot then you have a miniature!

— Kyle Williams

 Photos in Cactus Chronicle —

 Blossfeldia liliputana, Conophytum pellucidum, Neohenricia sibbettii, Avonia alstonii ssp. quinaria

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Monadenium - October 2018, July 2007

The genus Monadenium is a close relative of Euphorbia. The key difference between the two genera is that Euphorbia flowers have four nectaries, while Monadenium have these fused into a single horseshoe-shaped nectary. This makes the flowers look significantly different, and most Monadenium flowers reflect this by generally having a distinct asymmetry not seen in Euphorbia. The name Monadenium reflects this fusion.

While Euphorbia is a world wide genus, Monadenium is confined to Africa, with a large part of the genus in tropical Africa. There are about 75 species, with many discovered recently, and more certainly to be found. Like Euphorbia, there is enormous size variation in the genus. There are leafy sub shrubs, true shrubs, and geophytes that have almost all their mass underground, with only deciduous leaves above ground when growth conditions are favorable.

As with most tropical genera, Monadenium are sensitive to temperature, and particularly to combined cold and wet. It pays to keep them dry during their winter dormancy, and to bring them out of dormancy with some care to keep the roots from rotting in the early spring.

Propagation of Monadenium is similar to Euphorbias. Cuttings can be from the stem succulent species. When they are fully dry, they will root and form typical plants. Cuttings of the geophytic plants are more difficult and many will not form typical caudexes from cuttings. Some require double cuts to form caudexes at all. (A double cut consists of an initial cutting, followed by removing the top of the rooted cutting when growth resumes.)

Photos in Cactus Chronicle:

Monadenium trinerve

References:

H. Schwartz, The Euphorbia Journal

Sajeva and M. Costanzo, Succulents, The Illustrated Dictionary

Tom Glavich - March 2003

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Monotypic cacti - February 2010

Monotypic cacti or distinguished from other genera by the fact they have only one species per genus. This is not the case with most cacti and succulents where most genera have several species and/or subspecies associated with the genus.  

Monotypic cacti are endemic to their environments and are geographically more likely to be found in areas of Mexico, southern California, Arizona, New Mexico, and southwestern Texas.

One of the more remarkable instances of endemic monotypic cacti is in the Sonoran desert where Carnegiea gigantea forests (Saguaro) are found. Originating in the dry climate condition of the Sonoran Desert, these specimen dominate the landscape.

The following describes other monotypic cacti genera and the plants that comprise a more collective category of plants.

Leuchtenbergia principis is found in Mexico and is a specimen that looks more like an Agave than a cacti. The tubercles are approximately 3 to 4 inches in length and look much like agave leaves.  Flowers emerge from the tips of new tubercles in the spring.

Found in Southern Bolivia and northwestern Argentina, at higher elevations is Blossfeldia liliputana. This is a solitary or clumping miniature cactus that produces 1/2 inch stems or globular growths. This genus tolerates colder conditions than most cacti and require little or no water during the winter months.  

Obregonia denegrii is another monotypic cacti that is popularly known as the artichoke cactus. Found in Mexico Obregonia's can tolerate extreme cold for short periods of time. This is a solitary and globular plant that produces greyish green to dark green, triangular tubercles. A dome of white wool forms at the apex of the plant.

Ortegocactus macdougalli is endemic to Oaxaca Mexico and grows on limestone rock cropping at heights up to 6,000 feet.  Closely related to the genus Mammillaria, this plant is often grafted to avoid growing difficulties associated with its own root system. Another potential problem with Ortegocactus is the orange discolorations that frequently appear at the base of stems.

The last example of monotypical cacti presented in this article is Geohintonia mexicana.   Originating from the Nuevo León: Sierra Madre areas or Mexico, this plant grows on vertical cliffs filled with gypsum. Geohintonia are typically solitary plants with numerous ribs. Juvenile specimen are normally globose becoming more columnar as they mature. Plants are typically dark green covered by a glaucous pruina. Geohintonia spines are short, triangular, curved, and as they age brittle. This plant is endangered and is considered a prize specimen in a collection. Geohintonias are named for its discoverer George Hinton.

Photos in Cactus Chronicle:

Geohintonia mexicana, Ortegocactus macdougalli, Carnegiea gignatea forest,

Blossfeldia liliputana, 

 References:

D. Hunt, The New Cactus Lexicon;  C. Innes and C. Glass, Cacti

Steve Frieze, February 2010

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Monstrose - November 2018 & 2015 & 2013, February 2012, November 2011, October 2008, November 2007

​In monstrose plants, the mutations take place all over the plant.  Growth points originate all over the stem or branches causing very irregular growth.  The resulting plant may have little or no resemblance to its sister or brother in the same species.

see Crest and Monstrose   for more information

Neochilenia - October 2006

Neochilenia and Neoporteria are now included in the genus Eriosyce. The genus  Neoporteria  was named after the Chilean entomologist and naturalist Carlos Porter.  

Eriosyce used to be a very little genus. It now includes Chileorebutia, Delaetia, Horridocactus, Islaya, Neochilenia, Neoporteria, Pyrrhocactus, Rodentiophila, and Thelocephala. All the species still come from Chile, and vary in shape from globular to shortly columnar. The name 'Eriosyce' comes from the Greek for woolly 'fruit'.

Many of the species have a tap root, and most are rot prone, and particularly the dwarf species. The potting soil used should have an excellent drainage. They generally take some frost for a short period of time.

Recommended Temperature Zone: USDA: 9b-11 Minimum Avg. Temperature: 50°F (10°C)

Sun Exposure: Full sun to light shade

Origin: Chile (Elqui Valley)

Growth Habits: Globose to cylindrical, up to 8 inches tall (20 cm), 5 inches in diameter (13 cm)

Watering Needs: Extremely root prone, needs good drainage.

Propagation: Seeds

Photo in Cactus Chronicle:

Eriosyce (neochilenia) kunzei

Information courtesy of www.desert-tropicals.com

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Neoporteria - October 2006

Recommended Temperature Zone: USDA: 9b-11 Minimum Avg. Temperature: 20°F (-7°C)

Sun Exposure: Full sun to light shade

Origin: Chile (Atacama)

Growth Habits: Globose to short columnar stem, up to 1.5 inches in diameter (4 cm), 2.4 inches tall (6 cm); very large tap root; larger tubercles than ssp. lembckei; short black radials

Watering Needs: Needs deep pot and good drainage to accommodate its tap root

Propagation: Seeds

see Neochilenia above for more info.

Photo in Cactus Chronicle:

Eriosyce (neoporteria) napina

Information courtesy of www.desert-tropicals.com

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Nolina - April 2014, June 2007

​ . . . the characteristics of being woody and having grass-like to sword-like leaves. Cultivation of most species is easy. Nearly all can grow in the ground, and most, but the largest species, can live happily in pots. They are mainly warm season growers so provide some water during the spring through fall to get them to look their best.

Nolina, like Yucca, has species native to the United States (including in our area of California). They are very closely related to Beaucarnea but differ in technical features of the fruit. While all Beaucarnea form woody trees, Nolina often form big clumps of grassy to sword shaped leaves. Some large, mature Nolina can form a big mostly unbranched trunk and look remarkably similar to the Australian Grass Trees, Xanthorrhoea.

-- Kyle Williams

Photo in Cactus Chronicle:

Nolina parryi

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Notocactus - April 2016, October 2009, February 2007

What we call Parodia today is an assemblage of cactus species formerly spread out amongst the genera Parodia, Brasili-cactus, Brasiliparodia, Eriocactus, Wigginsia, and most notably Notocactus.  In other words, if you have a cactus with any of those genus names you should now call them Parodia. Botanists have determined that all these genera contain species so similar and closely related to each other that there is no meaningful and reliable way to tell the genera apart. For example, a major way of separating these supposedly different genera was to look at the color of the stigma (the female part of the flower) and details of how seeds were attached to the inside of the fruit. These are such minor and inconsistent details that it isn’t reasonable to keep them apart.

-- Kyle Williams

Obregonia - August 2014

Obregonia is a monotypic genus (i.e. a genus with only one species) containing the species Obregonia denegrii from a small region of Tamaulipas, Mexico. This plant gets its name from a fairly shameless attempt to impress both the President of Mexico, Mr. Obregon and the Agriculture Minister of Mexico, Mr. Denegri, at the time the plant was discovered. If you are going to have a cactus named after you this is one of the better ones as Obregonia is one of the most unusual and coveted cacti in cultivation. The common name "Artichoke Cactus" belies this. The plant forms unusual leaf like tubercles that really do resemble an artichoke, though this is much slower growing and you wouldn't want to eat it! For a long time this species was quite rare and expensive in cultivation. In recent years the price has come down quite a bit as more and more plants are produced. While certainly not common, you can find it fairly readily at cactus shows and through specialist cactus nurseries.

Plants are slow growing but cultivation isn't particularly difficult. Plants grown in shady conditions are usually green, but give them more light and they will become a beautiful bronze color. Because they are slow growing and tuberous rooted they can be prone to rot, especially in the winter, if kept too moist. Treat it like an Ariocarpus and you will be fine.

Photo in Cactus Chronicle:

Obregonia denegrii

-- Kyle Williams

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Opuntia - July 2007

from South America - March 2014

from North America - September 2017, July 2013

Opuntia is one of the largest genera of the Cactaceae (cactus family) and is the most common type of cactus in North America. Plants in this genus form jointed stems that to many look like leaves (but aren't). The most distinctive (and reviled) feature of Opuntia are "glochids", tiny hair like spines that stick in your skin even if you just brush against the plant lightly. Always have tweezers ready when Opuntia are near! Jointed stems and glochids are found in most of subfamily Opuntioidiae, which consists of Opuntia and several closely related genera (see below).

For the sake of the "Plant of the Month" we will include North American Opuntia (including Mexico & the Caribbean) and closely related genera. These additional genera include Cylindropuntia, Consolea, Pereskiopsis, Cornyopuntia, and Grusonia.

Opuntia (in the broad sense) covers the largest geographical range of any cactus genus, stretching from Southern Argentina to Canada, covers all of the Caribbean Islands and Pacific Islands, from the Galapagos to the Catalinas. It is naturalized on every continent except Antarctica. It is a pest and a noxious weed in many places, and is displacing native vegetation in parts of Africa, Asia, Madagascar and Australia.

The vast majority of North American Opuntioideae species belong to just two genera: Opuntia and Cylindropuntia. Opuntia, commonly called “Prickly Pears” have pads which are actually flattened, jointed stem segments. They are NOT leaves. No other cacti (outside of some very closely related Opuntioid genera) have this growth form. Cylindropuntia was formerly included in Opuntia but is fairly easy to distinguish by its round jointed stems. They are commonly called Chollas and some species are famously called “jumping Chollas” because the spiny stem segments break off (“jump”) very easily and stick to animal fur, clothing, or even right in our skin. Aside from the unusual Pereskiopsis which has true leaves, the other North American genera closely resemble these two main genera. For the sake of Plant of the Month, Cylindropuntia is exclusively North American, but Opuntia is not. So do a quick Google search for the name of your Opuntia to check for sure.

 Taxonomy in is very complicated in this group and some botanists consider everything Pereskiopsis to all be Opuntia (of these North American genera), though most are also accepting of Cylindropuntia. Most of the recent changes in the Opuntia group is due to recent DNA phylogeny studies of the species.

Handling of Opuntias is somewhat of a problem due to their glochids. Handling with steel tools is the best bet. Leather and cloth gloves get covered with glochids, which invariably end up in your hands when the gloves come off. However, the modern neoprene gardening gloves work great. Plucking with tweezers is effective and brushing works sometimes. Duct tape is a help, and as a last resort, so is rubber cement.

 — Kyle Williams

Photos in Cactus Chronicle:

Opuntia basilaris, Opuntia ’Sunburst’, Cylindropuntia ramosissima  

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Oreocereus - October 2018, June 2009

Oreocereus is another very popular South American columnar cactus that is found in Bolivia and Northern Argentina. Also known as the Old Man of the Andes, most species of Oreocereus form prostrate cluster or bush-like spreads of erect columns. Oreocerus celsianus (pictured in June 2009 Chronicle) is a specimen that can grow to 10 feet tall and look tree-like in appearance. The mature plant is covered with red or straw-colored spines. The flowers produced by this plant are red-violet. Oreocereus doelzianus is a less popular plant that grows in an entirely different manner. Species of this plant reach only 3 feet and are approximately 3 inches in diameter. This plant forms clumps in habitat that are covered with downy white areoles from which protrude sharp spines. This species produces a tubular shaped crimson flower. 

Columnar cacti are not a botanically or taxonomically related genera; they are instead a grouping of all the cacti that grow in a columnar manner.  They are robust growers, given adequate water, fertilizer, root room and support. They expect more nitrogen in their soil and more water than most globular cacti, when they are growing. They do well in normal cactus mix, as long as they get additional fertilization.

References:

D C. Zappi, Pilosocereus

D. Hunt, The New Cactus Lexicon

Tom Glavich, August 2004 - Edited by Steven Frieze, 2009

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Oroya - July 2018, February 2013, October 2007

Oroya is a Peruvian cactus, found in the Western foothills and lower mountain slopes and valleys of the Andes. These plants are not as well known as many other South American cacti, even though they have wonderful body colors, spines and flowers. Oroya grows quite a bit slower than Matucana. They are not difficult plants. The general culture is similar to most other South American cacti. They need water when growing in the summer but need to be kept dry when cold. They do fine, unprotected in Southern California winters.

Oroya was also described by Britton and Rose, on the same page as Matucana.  This genus has only two or three species. The type is Oroya peruviana, the genus again named after a nearby town. The type was known by a different name since 1903.  

In habitat Oroya is a flattened globe, with only the upper surface usually visible. In cultivation the plant shows off a beautiful spiral pattern of spines, with geometric precision equal to any Mammillaria.

-- Kyle Williams​

Photo in Cactus Chronicle:

Oroya Peruviana

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Ortegocactus - January 2011

Ortegocactus macdougalli is endemic to Oaxaca, Mexico and grows on limestone rock cropping at heights up to 6,000 feet.  It is a monotypic cactus.

Closely related to the genus Mammillaria, this plant is often grafted to avoid growing difficulties associated with its own root system. Another potential problem with Ortegocactus is the orange discolorations that frequently appear at the base of stems.

Photo in Cactus Chronicle:

Ortegocactus macdougalli

References:

D. Hunt, The New Cactus Lexicon, C. Innes and C. Glass, Cacti

Steve Frieze, January 2011

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Othonna - January 2018 & 2012 & 2010

​Othonna, with over 100 species, would be considered a large genus in most circumstances.  They are winter growing plants from the winter rainfall areas of Namibia and western South Africa. They are variable in form, with the most popular kinds having attractive caudiciform bases. Other types have fat elongated stems while others are geophytes which make annual stems that come up in the winter and die to the ground in the summer. Most make nice yellow daisy-like flowers. Cultivation of the woody species is very similar to Tylecodon or other woody winter growers, while the geophytic species can be treated similar to winter growing bulbs such as Albuca.

-- Kyle Williams

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Oxalis caudiciform - January - February 2009

research in progress

Pachycormus - May - June 2008, March 2008, June 2007, March 2007

research in progress

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Pachypodium - May - June 2008, June 2007

   Africa - July 2017, August 2011

   of Madagascar - July 2015

   not Madagascar - September 2009

The vast majority of species (all but a handful of the 25-30 species) occur only on Madagascar. Some species look like they come from a desert (e.g. P. brevicaule), while many others would look as much at home in a tropical landscape as a desert one (e.g. P. lamerei).  Madagascar really is a tropical island, just one with deserts, rainforests, and everything in between!  In particular, the amazing Traveler's Palm (Ravenala madagascariensis), a close relative of the Bird of Paradise (Strelitzia). 

of Madagascar

 . . . every Pachypodium species except: P. namaquanum, 

P. succulentum (including P. griquense), P. bispinosum, P. saundersii & P. lealii. 

Pachypodium belongs to the Apocynaceae, one of the largest of all plant families as well as one of the families with the most species of succulents. It is closely related to Adenium, Stapeliads, Fockea, Oleanders, Milkweeds, Plumeria, and many other non-xeric plants. While most similar to Adenium, Pachypodium can be distinguished from it by having spines, and usually by flower color. While pinks and reds are extremely common in Adenium, only a few Pachypodium have red or pink in their flowers. Pachypodium also stands out from most of the family, including Adenium, in having alternate leaves (one leaf at each node) while the rest of the family (usually) has opposite leaves (paired leaves).

Have you ever given thought to how plants end up where they are and why some places have more species than others? The distribution of Pachypodium may lead you to consider that. Why are there so many more (4 - 5x) as many species in Madagascar than in the whole of continental Africa? It must be because Pachypodium evolved in Madagascar, right? Possibly, but it is equally likely that it evolved in Africa but didn't diversify greatly there, but when a single plant arrived in Madagascar it rapidly spread around the island then became isolated in different habitats which over time evolved into different species. In other words, a center of diversity for a plant group today doesn't necessarily mean that's where the group originated. In one location the conditions may have allowed for tall, tree like, species to form (e.g. P. lamerei & P. geayi) while in other places, such as very dry rocky hills, small very xeric species may have been better adapted. Yes, Africa also has lots of different habitats, but it may have had to compete with many other plants already there while Madagascar might have had less plants at the time, making it easier for Pachypodium to thrive and diversify. Recent research into the relationships of Pachypodium suggest this may well be what happened!

Cultivation of Pachypodium is generally easy. Most like constant moisture (not wet!) during the growing season. When they drop their leaves in the winter keep dry. Some species, like P. brevicaule are more water sensitive than others. The biggest difference between African and Madagascar species is in cold tolerance. In general, African species can tolerate more cold, while Madagascar species need to at least be kept above freezing, with some species only thriving if kept above 50 degrees. P. lamerei is the biggest exception in that it is a Madagascar species that can tolerate the occasional light frost in our region.

Photos in Cactus Chronicle:

 Pachypodium makayense, Pachypodium geayi, Pachypodium baronii,

-- Kyle Williams

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Parodia - April 2016, October 2012, February 2007

The genus Parodia now incorporates the genus Notocactus, and in modern references, all Notocacti have been moved into Parodia. The number of species has also been greatly reduced. The original distinguishing characteristic was the red stigmas in the flowers of Notocactus, and the yellow stigma in those of Parodia. The distinguishing characteristic between the two genera evolved over time, eventually becoming a minor difference in the attachment of the seed to ovary. Parodia has swept up several other genera, and is likely to grow and swallow a few more as botanical and genetic studies continue.  Nonetheless, the two are separate in many seed catalogs, in older reference books, in our shows, and in most of our collections.

Notocactus are South American Cacti, with the genus being centered in Brazil and Argentina. Members of this genus are also spread throughout the Eastern side of the Andes. This genus is easy to grow, growing freely in the spring through the fall, and going more or less dormant in the during the colder months. Some species will flower in mid-winter, and given their native environment, most do better given a little water year around. If watering Notocactus in the winter, avoid fertilization or weak growth may result. Some of the more tropical species need protection from colder weather to prevent scarring, but most will take normal Southern California winters without protection.

All the species are easy to grow from seed. Seed is available for nearly all the species and from many localities. Fresh seed germinates readily and can grow to a show quality plant in just a few years. Vegetative propagation of the clustering types is easy as well. Cuttings taken during the late spring and early summer root readily and show new growth before the season is over.

The genus Parodia are typically globular to cylindrical plants with pronounced ribs. Flowers emerge from the apex of the plant, normally are self-fertile and are generated during the spring and summer. The genus was named for Argentinean botanist, L. R. Parodia. The genus Notocactus was folded into Parodia relatively recently and this genus also is synonymous Malacocarpus, Brasilicactus, and Wiggninsia. The genus Parodia now incorporates sixty six species and can be found in habitat in South America (Brazil, Bolivia, Uruguay, Argentina).

Photos in Cactus Chronicle:

 Notocactus magnificus, Notocactus leninghausii crest, 

Parodia ottonis, Parodia formosa

References:

D. Hunt, The New Cactus Lexicon; C. Innes & C. Glass, Cacti

Tom Glavich February 2003 - Edited by Steve Frieze, 2012

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Pedilanthus - October 2018, July 2007

the genus Pedilanthus has been submerged into the genus Euphorbia.

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Pediocactus - March 2015, September 2008 & 2007

Pediocactus has a similar number of species as Echinomastus. It had long been thought to be closely related to Sclerocactus but recent DNA research suggests it is closer to genera such as Ariocarpus! All the species occur in the western US. One species in particular, P. simpsonii, is quite possibly the most cold hardy of all cacti. Only a few species of Opuntia plus Escobaria vivipara can rival it in that regard. I distinctly remember as a child being on a trip to Rocky Mountain National Park in northern Colorado and seeing (what I now know to be) P. simpsonii growing among the rocks at over 10,000 feet in elevation. I thought someone had planted it and it was going to die over the winter as there are only a few months of year snow is not covering the ground there. Once I discovered it was native I was truly impressed with how tough a little cactus can be! Flowering and seed germination are best in cold regions.

Although I've been stressing how tough and cold resistant these cacti are, it shouldn't stop you from growing these attractive little guys. They will grow just fine in our climate and it is always nice to have some cacti from America in your collection. Especially ones from our most overlooked desert (from a cultivation standpoint), the Great Basin.

-- Kyle Williams

Photo in Cactus Chronicle:

 Pediocactus simpsonii

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Pelargonium - February 2018, January 2014, January-February 2009, February 2008, February 2007

On any street, anywhere in the country, you will find numerous homes growing Pelargonium hybrids in their flower beds. In cold weather regions they are annuals but in climates like ours they will live forever with good care. They are popular for their showy flowers that come in a vast array of colors too numerous to list. Most non-experts incorrectly call these plants Geranium. They aren't too far off as both belong to the family Geraniaceae, but true Geranium species are usually weeds. What few people realize is that there are a large group of true species Pelargonium (not hybrids) that are winter-growing succulents well suited for cultivation in California. These are the plants that our succulent of the month is focused upon. For purposes of our monthly show we also include the very closely related genus Sarcocaulon (aka Monsonia).

Pelargonium is a genus of approximately 200 species native to the African continent from South Africa to Kenya, even to Yemen. However, almost all the succulent species come from South Africa or Namibia, with the center of diversity being the Cape region. Pelargoniums are mostly winter growing succulents that are well suited for our wet-winter, dry-summer climate in California. During the growing season they have lush green leaves and attractive flowers, while during the summer time some look like dead sticks. The flowers aren't as gaudy as the horticultural hybrids, but any discerning grower will find them quite attractive.  

Most species are very easy to grow, if attention is paid to providing an environment very similar to their South African home. Some species, such as P. echinatum and P. triste are tolerant enough to be naturalized in the ground in Southern California when given good drainage and protected from summer watering. Many species will not go dormant if watered all summer, but the plant health and appearance both suffer. Like most cacti and succulents, when in doubt don't water! The potting mix for Pelargoniums should be well drained, with only small amounts of organic matter, if any. Fertilizer should be applied during good winter growing weather (i.e. not in the summer and not during cold, wet periods). A potting mix recommended by Michael Vassar is 50% pumice, 35% washed builders sand and 15% leaf mold based planter mix. Plants growing under these conditions will stay compact, have thick leaves, and a healthy appearance. A well grown Pelargonium will have leaves that appear to float near thick, rugged stems. If given too much water and fertilizer, they will grow leggy, and the leaves will become soft, large and droop. Plants grown hard will be healthier, and better able to survive hot summers undamaged. 

All Pelargoniums need pruning to maintain size and shape. Pinching new growth will make the plants bushy, and develop good trunk structure. Many are self fertile, and seed is easily collected after flowering. Most are promiscuous, and garden hybrids are easily set if more than one species is in flower at a time. Seed collected in the spring and planted in late September to November germinates quickly, and will have an entire winter to grow before going dormant during the summer.

Photos in the Cactus Chronicle - 

Pelargonium ferulaceum, Pelargonium carnosum, Flowers of Pelargonium carnosum 

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Pterodiscus caudiciform - July 2007

Pterodiscus, Sesamothamnus, and Uncarina are all members of the Pedaliaceae or Sesame family. They are all still relatively uncommon succulents, in spite of the relative ease of growing many of them.

Pterodiscus is a strictly African genus of relatively small caudiciform succulents. Although most of the collected species come from South Africa, Namibia and Botswana, the genus stretches through a good portion of central and eastern Africa. In habitat, the caudex is generally half above ground and half below. A single stem is produced every year. The stem produces non-succulent leaves and small, unusual flowers.

In cultivation, the nearly entire caudex is generally put above the soil line.

Photo in Cactus Chronicle:

Pterodiscus speciosus

-- Tom Glavich May 2005

Raphionacme - August 2014

Raphionacme contains 37 species of mostly geophytic shrubs, with only a handful of climbing species. However, the most commonly cultivated species R. flanganii is a vine and therefore is the habit people associate with the genus. While most species are in southern Africa, the genus can be found from South Africa, through tropical Africa, and even into Arabia. It grows in a wide variety of habitats ranging from deserts to tropical rainforests. The plants we usually see in cultivation tend to be South African species that are adapted to a dry, non-tropical, climate like our own.

Cultivation for the most commonly grown, South African, species of these genera is fairly easy. Treat as a summer growing succulent that doesn't like to dry out completely. Most plants will go dormant or semi-dormant in the winter and shouldn't be watered as often, though they seem fairly tolerant of our wet winters if the soil is well drained. The tubers/caudex grow the fastest when buried, so it is advantageous to grow them that way for several years before raising them.

-- by Kyle Williams

Photo in Cactus Chronicle:

Raphionacme burkeri

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Rebutia & Sulcorebutia - August 2019, July 2016, May 2013, April 2009, March 2008 & 2007

Rebutia and Sulcorebutia are both genera from the highlands of Bolivia and Northern Argentina. They are similar in appearance, in habitat and culture. Coming from high altitudes, they are both tolerant of cold, and if dry, can be left out in all weather. The populations of Sulcorebutia and Rebutia overlap, but there are no natural hybrids are known.

Both genera are easily grown. They are dormant in winter, and start to grow in late March or April. They flower from April through June, with the peak flowering period varying from year to year depending on the weather. Two flowering cycles are common in cultivation in California. The flowers are almost always numerous, and vary in color from purple and red through orange to yellow. They do well in normal compost, and grow best with steady fertilization, when in active growth. They are both attractive to spider mites (Sulcorebutia more so, particularly the ones with few spines.) Damage can be prevented by frequent inspection, and a weekly, forceful wash down with water.

Propagation from offsets is easy. The offsets should be cut off, left to dry for a few days, and then replanted. Very small offsets can be successfully rooted. Seed is easy to germinate, but is short lived.

There has been debate from the start on whether or not Sulcorebutia and Rebutia are the same genus. (Current thinking is that they are.) The issue will ultimately be settled by genetic studies. For the present they are treated as separate genera, and they appear this way in almost all references, catalogs and show schedules. Both genera cover large altitude ranges, and many species are so variable that collections from nearby populations or even the same population at different times have been given different names. There are far more names than species. The books by John Pilbeam help make sense of the species and varieties.

​March 2005 by Tom Glavich 

Edited by Steven Frieze, 2009

Photo in Cactus Chronicle:

Sulcorebutia rauschii entered in the 2001 Intercity Show by D. & E. Tufenkian

Sansevieria - September 2017, May 2015, April 2011, November 2009, April 2008 & 2007, September 2006

To many cactus and succulent growers, Sansevieria is something of an oddball group that gets thought of more as a houseplant than a real succulent. While it makes a great houseplant, it is an unfortunate way to look at this interesting genus of plants. I like to think of them as one of the very few groups of succulents that can tolerate, and even thrive in low light situations such as life inside a home. While most species can do well In-doors, that is by no means the required or preferred way to grow them. In our mild climate they can grow outdoors year round and make a great addition to the shadier spots of your landscape. They are among the easiest to grow and most tolerant of abuse of all succulents.

Sansevieria is a genus of approximately 70 species in the Asparagus family (Asparagaceae). Most species occur in Africa though some species have found their way to India and even Myanmar (Burma). The most notable differences between species are the length and shape of the leaves, as well as the coloration and patterning of the leaves. The common names "Snake Plant" and "Mother in law's Tongue" come from the long, stiff, pointed, and mottled leaf appearance of the most commonly grown species. However, some species produce much more interesting and unique leaf shapes. In particular, species such as S. cylindrica have leaves that are nearly circular in cross section.

In cultivation, many interesting hybrids and cultivars have been produced. Sansevieria hallii has several cultivars which carry variations on the the name "Baseball Bat". The name really is fitting as the leaves are very thick and tough. One of the most attractive species is S. kirkii. It has wavy leaves that are produced horizontally or at least low to the ground. The species has a brown to bronze cast which has been the basis for hybridization and cultivar selection. Cultivars such as "Coppertone", with its rich bronze and pinkish brown coloration, really show how beautiful the coloring of a Sansevieria can be.

Among the most popular types of Sansevieria are variegates. Most everyone has seen S. trifasciata 'Laurentii' even if you don't know it by name. It has long upright leaves with a yellow margin. It is not only one of the most popular Sansevieria, it is among the most popular of all houseplants. However, that is the tip of the iceberg. Variegates of S. pinguicula, S. robusta, S. kirkii and others can sell for $100 or more! For those looking beyond the typical yellow variegation, "Silver Streak" and "Siam Silver" are great plants with silvery-white variegation.

In recent years "minature" Sansevieria have become popular. They tend to have rounder leaves which only get a few inches long and look great in small pots. Unfortunately, most of these "minatures" are actually the juvenile forms of full sized species. Not only is the adult bigger, but it looks like a completely different plant. Sansevieria pinguicula and S. eilensis are examples of this. One of the only "minature" species I'm aware of that stays small and retains much of its juvenile look into adulthood is S. rorida.

Cultivation of most species is quite easy. They thrive in most any well drained potting mix. Outdoors they can grow in similar light conditions as Gasteria and Haworthia (i..e. bright shade, maybe some morning sun) or even shadier spots. They do well in ground, though they don't like being in an cold and wet for excessive periods. Propagation is simple. Either divide a large plant or grow new plants from leaf cuttings. Do note that leaf cuttings of variegated plants virtually always produce regular, non-variegated plants.

— Kyle Williams 

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Sarcocaulon - February 2023, February 2015, January-February 2009, February 2008 & 2007

It is important to have a discussion about the proper name for these plants. Traditionally, Monsonia has referred to the plants in this group that are herbaceous while Sarcocaulon referred to the species with fat, woody stems (Sarcocaulon means "fat stem").  However, nearly 20 years ago botanists determined they were all members of the same genus, and the proper name for the genus is Monsonia not Sarcocaulon. More recent studies using the DNA of the plants confirms this finding is correct. While some may think it odd to have the herbaceous and woody species together, it really is no big deal. You only have to look to Pelargonium to see that a diverse array of species, from herbs, to woody shrubs, to geophytes, all happily coexist in one genus without anyone raising an eyebrow.

We focus on Monsonia, the Bushman's Candles, a genus of small succulents and caudiciforms native to South Africa. They belong to the Geraniaceae, or Geranium Family, and are closely related to the better known Pelargonium. Monsonia differs from Pelargonium primarily in having "actiniomorphic" flowers instead of zygomorphic ones. For non-botanists that means the flower of Monsonia are more or less circular and you could divide them into two equal halves no matter where you draw the line (like a pie or cake). Zygomorphic flowers are symmetrical in one plane only, just like a person's face. There is only one direction you could divide the flower in two with equal halves.

As for the plant themselves, they make wonderful additions to any caudiciform or winter growing succulent collection. The plants most commonly grown by cactus and succulent collectors are the woody Sarcocaulon group. They produce leaves when conditions are ideal for growth but drop them readily when the soil dries out, much in the same way as the unrelated Foquieria does. The flowers are usually white to pale pink, or even red, and an inch or two across. While called winter growers, it should be noted that some species, most notably Monsonia vanderietiae, are "opportunistic" growers that can grow most any time of year that it receives moisture. This is reflective of the Monsonia's habitat which is usually more arid than that of Pelargonium. However, that doesn't mean the plant will grow year round. During active growth water regularly, but provide little to no water when the plants decide to go dormant.

-Kyle Williams

Photos in Cactus Chronicle:

Sarcocaulon/Monsonia flowers, Sarcocaulon piniculinum, 

Sarcocaulon vanderietiae

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Sclerocactus - March 2015

Sclerocactus has 15 species. "Sclero" means "hard" and it refers to the hard dry fruit (most cacti have soft fleshy fruit). All species are native to the United States, with most species occurring in the lower Great Basin Desert of Nevada, Utah, Colorado, northern Arizona and northern New Mexico. Plants are small and covered in dense spines. Interestingly, these plants do not flower as well for us as they do in cold climates. Freezing weather helps signal to the plants to develop flower buds. In our nearly frost free climate they don't get the signal as clearly. Even more challenging for us is growing the plants from seed. They require a repeated freeze and thaw cycle to germinate. That is easy to get in its native range, but for us it means we need to keep the seeds in the freezer and periodically take them out to let them warm up.

They will grow just fine in our climate and it is always nice to have some cacti from America in your collection. Especially ones from our most overlooked desert (from a cultivation standpoint), the Great Basin.

-Kyle Williams

Photo in Cactus Chronicle: 

Sclerocactus parvilous

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Sedum - March 2015

Whether chosen intentionally or not, this month's Sedum, shares an unusual trait (for cacti and succulents) with our cacti of the month, cold hardiness. At least for many of the most commonly grown species which can take snow and prolonged periods of subfreezing weather. Unlike this month's cacti, Sedum is a gigantic genus of 400-500 species. Native Sedum species can be found from Europe to Asia, Mexico to Madagascar, and America to Africa. Even though Sedum reaches the tropics, it still shows its preference for cooler climates as they tend to occur at higher elevations on mountains in those regions. This pattern is not unusual for plants primarily known from temperate climates as many genera of plants, such as Rhododendron, Conifers, and Violets, have a similar distribution.

 Sedum belongs to the family Crassulaceae which includes many of our most popular succulents like Crassula, Echeveria, Aeonium, Kalanchoe, and Dudleya. While it is difficult to generalize for hundreds of different species, Sedum tends to form stems like Kalanchoe instead of rosettes like in Echeveria. The stems can be tall and straight, though more commonly the plants grow as a subshrub or groundcover such as S. dasyphyllum. One of the most interesting and popular species is S. morganianum, the Donkey Tail, known for its long hanging stems densely covered with fat cylindrical leaves.

DNA research on the relationships between species and genera of the Crassulaceae has shown Sedum species appearing in and amongst many different genera of the family. This means that Sedum is what taxonomists euphemistically call a "garbage can genus". Put simply, when there is a species of Crassulaceae that does not clearly belong to one of the other genera it usually gets called a Sedum by default, especially if it is a stem forming species that isn't a Kalanchoe. That leads to unrelated species being put in the same genus, which isn't acceptable from a scientific standpoint. Expect to see Crassulaceae specialists rearrange things in the future. For you, the succulent enthusiast, what it means is that you should keep the same labels you have on your plants for now, but in the future you may need to change some of them if calling the plant by its correct name is important to you. One exception to that is that one of the most commonly grown species, Sedum spectabile, has clearly been shown to belong to a new genus Hylotelephium.

Flowers in Sedum can be particularly showy, especially in the species that form large clusters of flowers. Many species are grown for the flowers, with the plant being a secondary consideration. Hylotelephium (formerly Sedum) spectabile is an exceptionally popular species grown in colder climates. It forms big clusters of flowers at the end of long stems and is very tolerant of moist growing conditions, allowing it to be grown in regular flower beds back east where it gets rained on and irrigated regularly. The popularity of this species has led to numerous cultivars being created with flowers colors ranging from red to pink to white, and even purple and salmon orange.

Did you know that California has 15 native species of Sedum? That makes it our third largest genus of succulents (including cacti) in our state. Only Dudleya and Opuntia have more native species. Some are tiny annuals while others are larger perennials that are quite succulent. Some, like S. albomarginatum, look so similar to Dudleya that you couldn't tell the difference without looking closely.

​-- Kyle Williams

Photos in Cactus Chronicle:

Sedum albomarginatum, Sedum morganianum, Sedum nussbaumerianum

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Sempervivum - March 2010

The genus Sempervivum is endemic to the mountainous regions of central and Southern Europe and the Mediterranean islands. The grow at anywhere from 3,000 to 8.000 feet and can therefore tolerate colder temperatures than other succulents. There are over 50 species and 3,000 cultivars. Sempervivum form smallish rosette clumps of many different sizes (1/2 inch to 3 inches), forms, textures, and colors. Like Aeoniums, Sempervivum produce a star-shaped flower stalk after which the rosette dies. Flower colors are typically red or pink. The rosette leaves may appear to be glossy or more matte. Hairy rosettes are found in the cultivars, where silver colored strands can occur along the leaf margins. Even more distinctive are the clumps of hair which can be found on the leaf tips. With some cultivars the effect is significant enough to produce a cobweb like appearance. Sempervivum are collected and prized for their forms and numerous colors.

-- Steve Frieze, February 2010​

Photo in Cactus Chronicle:

Sempervivum collection

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Senecio and Othonna - January 2018, January 2012, January 2010

The two genera we are focusing on this month might not seem to have a lot in common, with one being a winter grower and the other a summer grower. The common thread is they are both members of the Daisy family, Asteraceae. The Asteraceae is the largest family of flowering plants with over 30,000 species. Only the Orchid family rivals it in size. As you’d expect in a family this large, species of Asteraceae can be found in every habitat all over the world. There are relatively few succulents for the size of the family, and the majority of these can be found in Senecio and Othonna. 

Senecio is an enormous genus of over 1,250 species, making it the largest genus in the Asteraceae and among the top ten largest genera of all plants. While the genus is huge, only a fraction of them are true succulents. In fact, many Senecio are normal leafy herbs you’d see in a weedy field. However, it is the succulent ones that interest us. Among succulent Senecio there are two main “looks” or growth forms. The first are upright stem succulents with deciduous leaves (i.e. leaves that fall off after a short time). They often have bluish-green stems with interesting striped markings and generally (but not always) stay 1-2’ tall or less. You may see these plants listed under the old name “Kleinia” by some sellers, especially the species with bright red flowers. Some, like S. anteuphorbium get taller and make an interesting succulent shrub. The other type are trailing plants with thin stems and succulent leaves that make great hanging basket plants for shadier spots. These plants usually have small white flowers. 

Othonna, with over 100 species, would be considered a large genus in most circumstances but seems tiny compared to Senecio! They are winter growing plants from the winter rainfall areas of Namibia and western South Africa. They are variable in form, with the most popular kinds having attractive caudiciform bases. Other types have fat elongated stems while others are geophytes which make annual stems that come up in the winter and die to the ground in the summer. Most make nice yellow daisy-like flowers. Cultivation of the woody species is very similar to Tylecodon or other woody winter growers, while the geophytic species can be treated similar to winter growing bulbs such as Albuca.

​Photos in Cactus Chronicle - 

Senecio rowleyanus, Senecio stapeliiformis

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Stapelia - September 2009

Stapelia and Caralluma are members of the Asclepiadaceae subfamily (formerly the family) of the Apocynaceae family (Bruyns, 2000). Both of these plants are described as stem succulents that belong to the Stepeliae tribe. They produce strong smelling flowers that are characterized as “carrion” with respect to their odor. The fragrance of the plants is linked to an intricate pollination mechanism that begins with the flies and other insects that are attracted to the flowers and that ultimately pollinate the flowers. The subfamily name is derived from the genus Asclepias (milkweeds). In addition to their unique floral fragrances, the flowers generated by these genera are also idiosyncratic with respect to their shapes, textures, and color combinations and are popularly called “starfish” flower plants.

Flowers are relatively short lived although in cultivation that have been known to sustain themselves for a few days. In good growing conditions, a sequential set of flowers are formed from the stems.

Propagation is relatively easily accomplished from cuttings or offsets that may be rooted in pumice. The use of a rooting compound such as Rootone (contains a fungicide) encourages successful propagation.

Stepelias and Carallumas should be grown in normal well drained cactus soil and watered thoroughly during the growing season. Mealy bugs can be an especially difficult problem with these two plants if an infestation takes hold. Preventive measures are a necessary and prudent step.

The natural habitat for Stapelias and Carallumas is Africa. Stapelias are typically found in the arid regions of tropical and southern parts of the continent. Over forty species can be located in Botswana, Zimbabwe, Namibia, and South Africa. They are also found in norther Zambia, southern Malawi, and central Mozambique

Steven Frieze, 2009

Photos in Cactus Chronicle:

Stapelia gigantea, Caralluma socatrana

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Stenocactus - July 2017, August 2013

Stenocactus and Echinofossulocactus are the same genus. The name of this easy to grow and uniquely ribbed genus has been a subject of contention since the 19th century. The genus was originally described in 1841 by George Lawrence, but the description was invalid. It was re-described in 1898 by Karl Schumann. Various attempts to straighten out the names went on for the next hundred years. With blessings from the Committee for Spermatophyta, (no one else knows what it means either), Kew Gardens, and the International Cactaceae Systematics Group, the name Stenocactus seems to have finally triumphed.

Echino traces to Echinus, which is Latin for Hedgehog, a spiny porcupine-like rodent from Europe, and also, equally likely, and much closer in appearance, a spiny, edible sea urchin from the Mediterranean. Stenos is Greek for narrow, an obvious referral to the many narrow ribs on almost all of the species.

They are all spiny plants, collected much more for the appearance of the spines and the wonderful curved ribs than their flowers, although the flowers can be quite showy. All of the species (there are ten) are very variable, and as a result, there are numerous varieties and forms that can enhance any collection. Most of the species are reasonably small, flowering at two years, when only an inch or so in diameter. A good representative collection can be kept on a table.

Stenocactus are native to Central to Northern Mexican. The genus is closely related to Ferocactus, differing by the lack of nectar glands, the lack of a ring of hairs above the stamens, and size.

Stenocactus grow in grass lands, and need some protection from full sun. They are easy to grow, putting on most of their body weight each year in the early spring to summer. Plants growing outdoors will grow slowly during the winter using just the water from winter rains. It is important not to fertilize during the darker days of December, January or February, or etoliation or stretching of the body will occur. The narrow ribs, the wooly areoles, and the dense spines are an ideal habitat for mealy bugs. Frequent inspection of the plants will prevent them from spreading. Older plants sometimes get corky near the base. Keeping the plant in continuous growth delays this, but in some species the cork is inevitable.

Identifying the species of an Stenocactus is as difficult as identifying the genus is easy. For the most part, they tend to look alike, and there are far more names than there are species. However, a few species do stand out.

-- Kyle Williams, with Special Thanks to Tom Glavich

Photos in Cactus Chronicle:

Stenocactus (Echinofossulocactus) phyllacantha, Stenocactus (Echinofossulocactus) tricuspidatus,

Stenocactus vaupelianus

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Strombocactus - August 2014

Strombocactus is monotypic. The sole species of the genus is S. disciformis. Its native habitat is on limestone cliffs in central Mexico. This harsh, very dry, natural habitat is strikingly similar to that of Aztekium (albeit around 300 miles apart), and botanists at one time thought they belonged together in the same genus.  ​All stay small enough to make nice potted specimens.

-- Kyle Williams

Photo in Cactus Chronicle:

Strombocactus disciformis

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Synadenium - July 2007

research in progress

Tephrocactus - July 2011

Tephrocactus, is a genus of very variable cacti, mostly from Argentina. Species vary considerably, from the very spiny Tephrocactus stramria to the paper spined Tephrocactus articulata to the nearly spineless Tephrocactus inermis. Tephrocactus are probably the most collected of the Opuntioideae, and there is even a Tephrocactus study group for the true fanatics. They make small, neat plants, and a good collection can be kept in a reasonable area.

Tephrocactus typically consist of short knobby joints that are either globular or cylindrical. Emanating from each of the joints are sharp spines or glochids. This genus is distinguished by its branching structure with shoots forming in vertical columns. 

All cuttings root easily. Seed propagation requires patience, with seed scarification and sometimes artificial wintering Propagation of all Tephrocactus is most accomplished by cuttings or from the joints that comprise the plant by keeping the seed damp and cold in the refrigerator required. Seed germination can be erratic, with seeds from the same plant sometimes germinating in days, and sometimes not for months. 

Handling of Tephrocactus is somewhat problematic. They are notorious for sharp spines, and nearly invisible glochids that are easily lodged in the unsuspecting hand of inattentive hobbyists. Handling plants with tongs or other tools for this purpose is the best way to avoid having spines lodged in your hands. Gloves are not necessarily the answer with this genus as they get covered with glochids, which invariably end up in your hands when the gloves come off. Glochids can often be removed by washing with a strong hose stream. Plucking with tweezers is effective and brushing works sometimes.  ​Duct tape is a help, and as a last resort, so is rubber cement.

Photos in Cactus Chronicle:

Tephrocactus articulatus v. papyracanthus, 

Tephrocactus Alexanderi, Tephrocactus molinensis

Tom Glavich March 2005 

Edited by Steve Frieze, July 2011

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Thelocactus and - August 2018, September 2014, June 2010, March 2008 & 2007

 Hamatocactus - August 2018

Thelocactus are spectacularly beautiful cacti with dense multicolor spination, well shaped tubercles, and large colorful flowers. They have been a favorite with collectors since they were first discovered. Thelocactus is a small genus in the cactus family, with only 11 or 12 species. In addition to the species, there are also half a dozen legitimate varieties, and a large number of less legitimate varieties that can be found in reference books and collections. The larger number of questionable varieties is due to variability of some of the species between populations from isolated locations.

Thelocactus are found from Southern Texas through central Mexico, mostly in the Chihuahuan Desert, but extending into brush land and thorn scrub in the western parts of its range, and into the Rio Grande Plains region in Texas. Thelocactus bicolor has the largest range, extending from central Chihuahua in the west into Texas in the north, and as far south as San Luis Potosi.

Thelocactus are easily grown, tolerant of heat and moisture, but not cold and moisture. They benefit from protection from being cold and wet, although plants left unprotected during the last several winters survived in good shape. Some species develop fairly large tap roots, and should be planted in deep enough pots to give them room to grow. They are easily propagated from seed, and this is the best way to develop a good collection from different populations. They can also be propagated from offsets, with a cutting allowed to dry, and then replanted.

The relationship between species of Thelocactus and other genera is somewhat uncertain. There is evidence to suggest the genus may need to be broken up, or at least have some species transferred into it. Originally, the genus was split out of Echinocactus, but isn't thought to be especially closely related to it today. Several other genera have been linked to Thelocactus, including Echinomastus, Leuchtenbergia, Glandulicactus, and Ferocactus. In addition the genus Hamatocactus has been bounced around between Thelocactus, Ferocactus, & Hamatocactus with some taxonomists dividing it up between the three, with some species being moved into each genus. More studies of DNA are needed before this can be sorted out. Until then keep calling them Thelocactus and enjoy the plants!

Photos in Cactus Chronicle:

Thelocactus bicolor, Thelocactus hexaedrophorus,

Thelocactus setispinus, Thelocactus macdowellii

-- Kyle Williams 

Special thanks to Tom Glavich

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Trichocereus - May 2010

​ . . .  easy to grow, and will reward the grower with spectacular flowers. Modern taxonomy has combined Echinopsis, Lobivia and Trichocereus and most recent authors have described all three under Echinopsis.

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Turbinicarpus - September 2016, June 2011, August 2009, September 2008 & 2007

Turbinicarpus is a small (but growing) genus of small plants from Northeastern and Central Mexico. It is one of several closely related genera, Neolloydia, and Gymnocactus, and Strombocactus being the ones most frequently mentioned. In many books, some of the plants listed below will appear as either Neolloydia or Gymnocactus. The exact relation of these genera is still being worked out and the disagreements between botanists are substantial. New species have been discovered and named in the past decade; seeds and plants of these are just becoming available.

All of the Turbinicarpus species are worth growing. They are all small, most full sized in collections at an inch or two. A few will clump readily, and make impressive show specimens, as shown below, but still remain manageable. A collection of all the species and varieties could easily fit on a table top.

In habitat, Turbinicarpus usually grow under the protection of larger plants, generally shrubs that offer some protection from the worst of the mid day sun. Turbinicarpus have large tuberous roots, which are their primary food and water storage source in times of drought. Over much of their habitat, rain falls during the summer, and growth is most rapid during this period. They can take lots of heat.

Turbinicarpus are fairly easy to grow, if attention is paid to their life cycle. They are dormant in winter, from November through mid-March. As they begin growth, watering has to start slowly. If too much water and fertilizer is given at once, it’s possible to burst the skin of the plant. Once growth is going (April and after) water freely. During very hot weather in the summer, the plants sometimes go dormant again for a short period. Attention has to be paid to watering again.

If a head splits, all is not lost. The entire head can be removed, and the top of the tuberous root left half an inch above the soil. It will usually start two or three new heads. Removing a head is also a great way for vegetative propagation. Turbinicarpus can be raised from seed. They are slow for the first year, but reasonable size plants can be grown in a year or two, and flowers the size of the plant will appear by the second year. Producing clumps as shown above will take quite a bit longer.

Photos in Cactus Chronicle:

Turbinicarpus schwarzii, Turbinicarpus subterraneous

​Tom Glavich, February 2002 

Edited by Steve Frieze, June 2011

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Tylecodon - January 2017, November 2012, November 2009, January 2008

Tylecodon is a member of the Crassulaceae Family. It is a winter-growing plant which looks at its best from late fall through early spring.

Tylecodon is a relatively new genus first published in 1978. In books published before this date, most plants that we know today as Tylecodon will appear as Cotyledon. The name Tylecodon is actually an anagram of the plant genera Cotyledon. In habitat (this typically occurs in cultivation as well), Tylecodon are generally deciduous, losing their leaves in summer.

Tylecodon consists of about 46 species among them the relatively ubiquitous species Tylecodon paniculatus. They are described as a small shrubby plant and originate from South Africa and Namibia.

The leaf structure is comprised of a coiled grouping of leaves (often vertical and needle-like) which emerge in late summer or early fall. Flowers appear at the end of the growing cycle in late winter or early spring. Tylecodons vary in shape and size with some species being as small as an inch while other can reach 6 feet in height.

Most Tylecodon are valued for their caudex-like stem structure and are relatively hardy in Southern California. Excessive watering during their dormant season can cause rot. Cutting can be rooted rather easily and are a good way to propagate this plant

Photos in Cactus Chronicle:

Tylecodon paniculatus in habitat, Tylecodon pearsonii

References

H. Jacobsen, A Handbook of Succulent Plants

M Sajeva and M. Costanzo, Succulents, The Illustrated Dictionary

Tom Glavich December 2002 

Edited, Steve Frieze November 2009

Uebelmannia - May 2014, September 2008, 2007, 2006

Uebelmannia does not produce a cephalium but is as much, if not more, highly prized than Coleocephalocereus. It is a small genus of globular to shortly columnar cacti with approximately three species, though some split up U. pectinifera into several different species. The genus is distinctive in having numerous spine covered ribs that give a very regular and pleated look to the plant. In addition most plants are various shades of purple to gray, giving even more beauty to the species. The most popular species is U. pectinifera and large, show quality, specimens can sell for hundreds of dollars. The biggest problem in growing nice big plants is their propensity to form marks and scars on the stems that detract from their appearance. A specimen sized plant without distracting marks is something to behold.

 . . . are from tropical regions and appreciate warmer temperatures. It is best to keep them at a minimum of 50 degrees in the winter, but they can be grown cooler (but never below freezing) if kept dry in the winter. Cool and wet makes them prone to rot. During the summer they appreciate more water than the average cactus.

-- Kyle Williams

Photo in Cactus Chronicle:

Uebelmannia pectinifera

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Uncarina - July 2007

Pterodiscus, Sesamothamnus, and Uncarina are all members of the Pedaliaceae or Sesame family. They are all still relatively uncommon succulents, in spite of the relative ease of growing many of them.

Uncarina, a Madagascan endemic is the most popular of the three genera. All of the species have underground, and sometimes aboveground swollen roots. There are about 15 species, with a few more likely to be discovered in the more isolated regions of Northern Madagascar. They are easy to grow, liking lots of water when in growth, but needing some protection from wet and cold in the winter.

--​ Tom Glavich May 2005

Photo in Cactus Chronicle:

​Uncarina grandieri entered in the 2003 Show by Naomi and Frank Bloss

Photo T. Nomer

Varigates - November 2016, April 2015, January 2013, March 2012, October 2010, November 2008 & 2007

Variegation is the appearance of differently colored areas leaf or stem due to a partial loss of chlorophyll. This is usually due to genetic mutation, developmental abnormalities or certain viruses. People have also been able to induce variegation in plants through the use of radiation or treatment with certain chemicals. The scientific details of exactly how variegation arises in plants, and how it is maintained (or lost), are too complex to go into in depth here.

The pattern may be consistent and well organized (e.g. many Agave) or it may be randomly distributed (e.g. most variegated cacti). Plants with patchy or mosaic patterns of variegation are often the result of a cell mutation that is fairly random. In other words the plant may be prone to producing cells without chlorophyll sporadically, and when that cell appears it divides many times (just like normal cells). Some plants have fairly organized and consistent variegation patterns. That is quite often due to different meristem (i.e. mother) cells being responsible for forming different layers or parts of a leaf or stem. For example, if the meristem cells responsible for making the outer edges of a leaf have the variegation gene while meristem cells for the center of the leaf do not, you will get a consistent pattern of white edges and a green center.

Plants totally lacking in chlorophyll (achlorophyllus), such as the brightly colored grafted Gymnocalycium cultivars are technically not variegated, but are considered so for the purposes of cacti and succulent shows. Keep in mind, a plant is not variegated just because the leaves have colored areas. It must be partially lacking chlorophyll as well.

Variegated plants normally have white or yellow patches and streaks, but can also be colors including red, orange, brown, pink, and purple. Colors other than white are due to the presence of colored plant pigments such as anthocyanins and carotenoids.

Variegation is known throughout the plant kingdom, but is rarely seen in the wild. The reason variegated plants are common in horticulture is that people like the color and unusual nature of these plants. When a rare variegate appears in a batch of seedlings we are keen to grow it, propagate it and spread it around!

Variegated plants have a place in most gardens. The strange and colorful patterns bring unique visual interest to any collection. In cacti and succulent shows, variegates generally compete against other variegates to put them on an equal footing. The Intercity Show gives the following guideline for showing plants in the variegated category: "Plants with 30% or more variegation may only appear in such category except for variegation in Agave, Gasteria, Sansevieria."

In general, variegated plants grow slower and are smaller than non-variegates of the same species. They also tend to sunburn easily and most need more sun protection than a typical member of the species. Ironically, variegates also have less shade tolerance than their non-variegated counterparts. The reason for this is that chlorophyll "soaks up" the sunlight to make food. With less chlorophyll the plant needs more light to get the same amount of food, but at the same time the more delicate tissues are exposed to the light without any protection.  A good rule of thumb is simply not to grow variegates in extremely bright or dark situations. Otherwise, the care of a variegated plant is the same as for the normal form of the species. A large well grown variegate of any species is truly an achievement.

Weingartia - July 2016

Weingartia is a genus in the family Cactaceae, with species native to Bolivia and Argentina, in the Andes mountains of central and south Bolivia and northwest Argentina at elevations of 1600 – 3600 meters.

All species of the genus Weingartia were transferred to synonymy status under the genus Rebutia (Hunt & Taylor, 1990; Hunt, 1999, Anderson 2001).

-- Excerpted from Wikipedia

​See Rebutia and Sulcorebutia for more info.

Yavia - January 2016

​Named for the Yavi department in Argentina where it was discovered.

Named in 2001, the genus Yavia is one of the most recently described genera in the cactus family. It was found growing at over 12,000 feet (3700m) elevation in a harsh, dry environment with very rocky soil. The single species is a small globular plant that consists primarily of a single stem, but may clump, especially when grafted. Ribs are present, but hardly noticeable beyond the rows of fuzzy-white areoles that feature very small reddish-brown spines. Flowers are pink with a short, thick floral tube.

Despite the recent discovery of this species, it is being rapidly propagated by enthusiasts and should become more and more available each year.

--- from CactiGuide.com

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Yucca - April 2014, June 2007

​ . . . the succulents of the month are several of the close relatives of Agave from the Americas. This group used to be called, the plant family Agavaceae, but today are considered part of the Asparagus family Asparagaceae. As most of you aren't interested in advanced taxonomy, let's just say these four genera are closely related to each other and share the characteristics of being woody and having grass- like to sword-like leaves. Cultivation of most species is easy. Nearly all can grow in the ground, and most, but the largest species, can live happily in pots. They are mainly warm season growers so provide some water during the spring through fall to get them to look their best.

Yucca is the largest and best known of these genera. Anyone traveling in the Mojave Desert has certainly seen Joshua Trees (Yucca brevifolia), one of the largest and most distinctive Yucca species. As close as the Mojave is, you don't even have to go that far to see a native Yucca. In our local hills grows Hesperoyucca whipplei (formerly Yucca whipplei), commonly called Spanish Bayonet because of the very sharp leaves or "Our Lord's Candle" due to the large (10 feet or more) white inflorescences produced in the spring can be seen from a mile or more away. While most Yucca species are better suited to being landscape plants due to their size, some do well as specimen plants in pots. Probably the most prized of these species is Yucca endlichiana, a small Mexican species with thick blue-green leaves and brown flowers (unique in the genus).