Scientific Name
Aztekium valdezii Velazco, M.A.Alvarado & S.Arias
Scientific Classification
Family: Cactaceae
Subfamily: Cactoideae
Tribe: Cacteae
Genus: Aztekium
Description
Aztekium valdezii is a small cactus with globose greenish-grey stems with spines twisted toward the apex and present only in the upper half of the stem. It grows solitary or branched from the base. Stems are star-shaped when viewed from above, up to 2.4 inches (6 cm) tall, and with a diameter equal to the height. The spines are flattened, curved, and up to 0.4 inches (1 cm) long. Flowers are funnel-shaped, deep pink or magenta and white color on the proximal third, up to 0.8 inches (2 cm) long and 1 inch (2.5 cm) in diameter. They bloom during the late spring and early summer.
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 and difficult cacti to grow. They have extremely slow growth, probably the slowest of the entire Cactus family. They 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 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 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.
Origin
This species is native to Mexico.
Links
- Back to genus Aztekium
- Succulentopedia: Browse succulents by Scientific Name, Common Name, Genus, Family, USDA Hardiness Zone, Origin, or cacti by Genus
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