Aztekium hintonii

Scientific Name

Aztekium hintonii Glass & W.A.Fitz Maur.

Synonym(s)

Aztekonia ×hintonii

Scientific Classification

Family: Cactaceae
Subfamily: Cactoideae
Tribe: Cacteae
Genus: Aztekium

Origin

Aztekium hintonii is native to Mexico. It grows in semi-desert shrubland in Galeana in Nuevo León.

Description

Aztekium hintonii is a small, slow-growing cactus with a spherical, grayish-green, usually solitary stem with 10 to 15 well-defined ribs traversed by tiny wrinkles. The stem grows up to 4 inches (10 cm) in diameter, sometimes producing a few offsets to form a small clump. The woolly apex of the stem has a slight depression. Ribs are up to 0.5 inches (1.3 cm) deep. Each areole bears three short-lived, grayish-white, curved, up to 0.5 inches (1.3 cm) long spines.

The diurnal flowers are magenta-colored, up to 1.2 inches (3 cm) in diameter, and appear at the apex of the stem in summer. Fruits are small, berry-like, pinkish, hidden in the apical wool, and contain tiny brownish-black seeds.

Hardiness

USDA hardiness zones 10a to 11b: from 30 °F (−1.1 °C) to 50 °F (+10 °C).

How to Grow and Care

Aztekiums are by far the most challenging cacti to grow. They have extremely slow growth, probably the slowest of the entire Cactus family, and usually take several years for growth to be even noticeable. However, once a specimen is established on its own roots, it is no trouble to keep it, and it becomes an easy plant to manage.

Because of the difficulty of cultivation, Aztekiums are most often grafted to hardier stock. They need good drainage and regular water in summer. Keep it nearly dry in winter. If grafted, the plants can take a little more water. Just remember the graft stock is also a cactus and will rot if overwatered. Provide shade from midday through the afternoon. A little morning sun is OK.

Learn more at How to Grow and Care for Aztekium.

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