Ortegocactus
From M&J Cactus Wiki
| Ortegocactus | |
|---|---|
| File:Ortegocactus macdougallii.jpg | |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Family | Cactaceae |
| Subfamily | Cactoideae |
| Tribe | Cacteae |
| SubTribe | |
| Genus | Ortegocactus |
| Species | |
| Notes | Taxonomy follows Joël Lodé (2015). A monotypic genus with a very distinct pitted epidermis, native to Mexico. |
Etymology
Named in honor of the Ortega family of San José Lachiguiri (Oaxaca), who assisted the discoverer, Thomas MacDougall.
Description
Ortegocactus is a tiny, slow-growing cactus that forms small clumps.
- Epidermis: Unique among cacti—it has a pale, lime-green to greyish-green color and a "pitted" or "dimpled" texture, looking almost like stone or ceramic.
- Tubercles: Small, low, and somewhat rhombic in shape.
- Spines: Small, black or very dark brown, contrasting sharply with the light body.
- Flowers: Small, funnel-shaped, and bright yellow. They appear at the apex.
Distribution
- Mexico: Endemic to a very small area in the state of Oaxaca, growing on limestone rocks.
Species
- Ortegocactus macdougallii (Type species)
