Scientific Name
Turbinicarpus valdezianus (H.Moeller) Glass & R.Foster
Synonyms
Pelecyphora valdeziana (basionym), Thelocactus valdezianus
Scientific Classification
Family: Cactaceae
Subfamily: Cactoideae
Tribe: Cacteae
Genus: Turbinicarpus
Description
Turbinicarpus valdezianus is a dwarf globular cactus, up to 2 inches (5 cm) tall and up to 0.8 inches (2 cm) in diameter, with a stem, completely divided into angled tubercles and obscured by dense spines. It has 30 or more distinctive "radial" spines, which are white and feathery. The radial spines spread out horizontally, forming small "umbrellas" on the tips of the tubercles. Unlike some other species, it lacks central spines. The flowers are variable ranging from pinkish-white to bright pink with darker magenta or reddish-brown midveins.
Photo via hajek-kaktusy.cz
Hardiness
USDA hardiness zone 9b to 11b: from 25 °F (−3.9 °C) to 50 °F (+10 °C).
How to Grow and Care
Turbinicarpus prefer to be in a well-ventilated position in full sun to maintain a good body color and spinal development.
The golden rule when it comes to watering is "never water when the compost is still damp." This is the one error that will certainly kill any plant! Watering should commence in the spring late March to early April, depending upon the weather conditions at the time. The plants should initially be given a light spray to gently encourage them into growth.
These cacti are all able to withstand high summer temperatures and indeed benefit, providing accompanied by good ventilation. Do not be tempted to overcrowd the plants. They will be far happier with a little space to allow the air to circulate. Winter temperatures can be set as low at 44-46 °F (7-8 °C), and providing the plants are kept dry, and the humidity levels are also kept low by good ventilation on bright days. See more at How to Grow and Care for Turbinicarpus.
Origin
Native to Mexico (Coahuila and San Luis Potosí states).
Varieties
Links
- Back to genus Turbinicarpus
- Succulentopedia: Browse succulents by Scientific Name, Common Name, Genus, Family, USDA Hardiness Zone, Origin, or cacti by Genus
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