Acanthocalycium spiniflorum
| Acanthocalycium spiniflorum | |
|---|---|
| File:Acanthocalycium spiniflorum.jpg | |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Family | Cactaceae |
| Subfamily | Cactoideae |
| Tribe | Trichocereeae |
| SubTribe | |
| Genus | Acanthocalycium |
| Species | Acanthocalycium spiniflorum |
| Notes | Taxonomy follows Joël Lodé (2015–2019, updated 2025). |
Description
Acanthocalycium spiniflorum is a globose to short cylindrical cactus species native to Argentina. Plants are typically solitary, dark green to gray-green, reaching up to 15 cm in height and 10–12 cm in diameter.
The ribs are numerous (10–16), clearly defined and divided into tubercles. Areoles are oval, bearing dense clusters of spines. Radial spines (8–12) are slender and slightly curved, while central spines (1–4) are thicker and more prominent.
Flowers are large relative to the plant body, funnel-shaped, and usually pink to reddish or magenta, sometimes with lighter centers. The floral tube bears scales with hairs and bristles. Fruits are small, globose, dry, and dehiscent.
Distribution
- Argentina – northwestern regions
Occurs in arid mountainous habitats, typically on rocky slopes and well-drained soils.
Taxonomy
According to Joël Lodé, this species is placed in the genus Acanthocalycium, which is currently accepted as a valid genus based on modern taxonomic revisions. :contentReference[oaicite:1]{index=1}
Historically, the species has been associated with Echinopsis and Lobivia, reflecting morphological similarities within the tribe Trichocereeae.
📚 Taxonomy note: Taxonomic placement follows the system of Joël Lodé (2015–2019).
Species within the genus
- Acanthocalycium ferrarii
- Acanthocalycium glaucum
- Acanthocalycium klimpelianum
- Acanthocalycium spiniflorum
- Acanthocalycium thionanthum
Synonyms
The following names have been applied to this species:
Notes
- One of the most widespread and variable species within the genus.
- Flower size is relatively large compared to the stem.
- Frequently encountered under different generic names in horticulture.
Cultivation
This species is relatively easy to cultivate:
- prefers well-draining mineral substrate
- requires bright light to full sun
- moderate watering during active growth
- keep dry and cool in winter
