Oreocereus
From M&J Cactus Wiki
| Oreocereus | |
|---|---|
| File:Oreocereus celsianus.jpg | |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Family | Cactaceae |
| Subfamily | Cactoideae |
| Tribe | Cereeae |
| SubTribe | Trichocereinae |
| Genus | Oreocereus |
| Species | |
| Notes | Taxonomy follows Joël Lodé (2015). High-altitude Andean cacti known for their dense woolly coverings. |
Etymology
The name is derived from the Greek oros (mountain) and Cereus, referring to its high-altitude habitat in the Andes.
Description
Oreocereus consists of columnar cacti that can grow solitary or in large clumps branching from the base.
- Stems: Stout and cylindrical, reaching up to 3 meters in some species.
- Wool/Hair: The most striking feature is the dense covering of long, white, silky hairs (modified spines) that emerge from the areoles, protecting the plant from freezing temperatures and intense sun.
- Spines: Strong, often brightly colored (yellow, red, or orange) central spines protrude through the white wool.
- Flowers: Diurnal, tubular, and zygomorphic (symmetrical in only one plane). They are typically red or purple and are pollinated by hummingbirds.
- Fruits: Globose to ovoid, hollow when ripe, and opening at the base.
Distribution
- South America: High altitudes (2500–4000m) of the Andes in Argentina, Bolivia, Chile, and Peru.
Species and Subspecies List
Following the classification of Joël Lodé (2015):
