Acanthocalycium thionanthum
| Acanthocalycium thionanthum | |
|---|---|
| |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Family | Cactaceae |
| Subfamily | Cactoideae |
| Tribe | Trichocereeae |
| SubTribe | |
| Genus | Acanthocalycium |
| Species | Acanthocalycium thionanthum |
| Notes | Taxonomy follows Joël Lodé (2015–2019). |
Acanthocalycium thionanthum is a species of cactus in the genus Acanthocalycium, native to Argentina.
Description
Acanthocalycium thionanthum is a variable cactus species, usually solitary, with globose to short cylindrical stems. The epidermis is green to dark green, sometimes slightly glaucous.
The ribs are well defined, typically numbering between 9 and 15, with rounded margins. Areoles bear numerous radial spines and several central spines. Spines are straight, varying in color from whitish to brownish or gray.
Flowers are funnel-shaped, diurnal, and variable in color, ranging from yellow to white or pinkish tones. The floral tube bears characteristic scales with spines, hairs, and bristles.
Fruits are spherical, dry, and dehiscent. Seeds are small, dark, and papillose.
Distribution
- Argentina – Catamarca, La Rioja, Salta, Tucumán
Taxonomy
According to Joël Lodé, this species is recognized within the genus Acanthocalycium.
Synonyms
- Acanthocalycium aurantiacum
- Acanthocalycium brevispinum
- Acanthocalycium catamarcense
- Acanthocalycium chionanthum
- Acanthocalycium griseum
Notes
- One of the most variable species within the genus.
- Has been described under numerous names, later unified under Acanthocalycium thionanthum.
- Variation occurs in spine density, stem coloration, and flower color.
Cultivation
- prefers well-draining mineral substrate
- requires bright light to full sun
- moderate watering during active growth
- keep dry and cool in winter
