Desert Jewels: Cactus Flowers of the Southwest and Mexico 1941451128, 9781941451120

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desert jewels

desert jewels Cactus Flowers of the Southwest and Mexico JOHN P. SCHAEFER

SEN TI NEL PE A K An imprint of The University of Arizona Press www.uapress.arizona.edu We respectfully acknowledge the University of Arizona is on the land and territories of Indigenous peoples. Today, Arizona is home to twenty-two federally recognized tribes, with Tucson being home to the O’odham and the Yaqui. Committed to diversity and inclusion, the University strives to build sustainable relationships with sovereign Native Nations and Indigenous communities through education offerings, partnerships, and community service. © 2023 by John P. Schaefer All rights reserved. Published 2023 ISBN-13: 978-1-941451-12-0 (hardcover) ISBN-13: 978-1-941451-16-8 (ebook) Cover design by Leigh McDonald Cover photograph by John P. Schaefer Art direction, design, and typesetting by Leigh McDonald Editorial direction by Kristen Buckles Typeset in Arno Pro 11.5/16 and Golden WF (display) Publication of this book is made possible in part by financial support from the University of Arizona Libraries. Library of Congress Cataloging-in-Publication Data Names: Schaefer, John Paul, 1934– photographer, writer of introduction. Title: Desert jewels : cactus flowers of the Southwest and Mexico / John P. Schaefer. Other titles: Cactus flowers of the Southwest and Mexico Description: [Tucson] : Sentinel Peak, an imprint of The University of Arizona Press, 2023. Identifiers: LCCN 2022015272 (print) | LCCN 2022015273 (ebook) | ISBN 9781941451120 (hardcover) | ISBN 9781941451168 (ebook) Subjects: LCSH: Cactus—Southwestern States—Pictorial works. | Cactus—Mexico—Pictorial works. | LCGFT: Illustrated works. Classification: LCC QK495.C11 S33 2023 (print) | LCC QK495.C11 (ebook) | DDC 583/.8850972—dc23/ eng/20220608 LC record available at https://lccn.loc.gov/2022015272 LC ebook record available at https://lccn.loc.gov/2022015273 Printed in China ♾ This paper meets the requirements of ANSI/NISO Z39.48-1992 (Permanence of Paper).

For Helen S. Schaefer, whose infinite patience put up with a lot of field trips

Contents

Introduction

ix

GENERA

Ariocarpus Astrophytum Carnegiea Cochemiea Coryphantha Cylindropuntia Echinocactus Echinocereus Escobaria Ferocactus Grusonia Isolatocereus Leuchtenbergia Lophophora Mammillaria Mammilloydia

3 7 13 17 21 33 39 43 75 81 89 93 95 97 99 151

viii 

Myrtillocactus153 Neolloydia157 Obregonia159 Opuntia161 Pachycereus173 Pelecyphora175 Peniocereus177 Sclerocactus183 Stenocactus185 Stenocereus191 Strombocactus195 Thelocactus197 Turbinicarpus205 Index209

introduction

P

what words alone cannot convey. Words are simply inadequate to describe the visual and emotional impact of the Grand Canyon, Yosemite, Yellowstone, or Grand Teton National Parks. Art, when done well as either a photographic or painted image, bridges the gaps between looking, seeing, and perhaps knowing and understanding. The beauty of the Sonoran Desert and its surroundings is more subtle than spectacular. Some would say that it is an “acquired taste,” marred by harsh summers, prolonged droughts, a landscape bristling with spines, snakes, and an abundance of unfriendly critters. Nonetheless, it has a rewarding richness that encourages engagement. And it has been my home for more than six decades. Though I grew up in New York City, camping and the outdoors have always been an important part of my life. Beginning as a Cub Scout, and through the ensuing years as a Boy Scout, Eagle Scout, and later Assistant Scoutmaster, I developed interests such as birdwatching that are still an enriching and important part of my life. When we settled in Tucson in 1960, leisure hours were often spent exploring the countryside, and marveling at the unfamiliar plant and animal life and the different life zones that define our state. Binoculars and a camera were two constant companions. Recording places and events on film began as a pleasant pastime but evolved into a determination to become a competent and serious photographer. Art classes in photography, building my own darkroom, and extensive reading and study followed; photography became a serious avocation. My primary interest in the 1960s was photographing our surroundings in Tucson, taking advantage of the trails in Saguaro National Monument (now Park) and Sabino Canyon. I used large HOTOGRAPHS COMMUNICATE

x

format view cameras that produced 4 x 5 or 5 x 7 negatives to make enlarged black-and-white prints. Time for long hikes and serious photography was scarcer when I became president of the University of Arizona, though other opportunities presented themselves as I traveled to interesting places around the world. Many of these images were the subject of an exhibition at the Tucson Museum of Art in 1997. Two decades ago on a chilly December day, Helen and I moved from suburban Tucson to a home we had built in the desert near Saguaro National Park. Living The patterns generated by the individual and amid relatively undisturbed desert offered an opporcollective plant’s spines are what prompted me tunity to interact with the environment in far greater to photograph the plant in black and white. In detail. So I began to look for plants with interesting color, the object is less visually interesting. shapes and forms. This quickly evolved into a new photographic challenge, spurred on by the nearby location of a cactus farm (see examples below). As the season changed, plants began to flower, and I quickly realized that I would need to make the transition to color photography to do justice to these subjects. Digital photography was still of marginal quality, unable to compete with the superb quality of film, so I began to photograph cactus plants in flower with a medium format camera and transparency film. In recent years I have begun to use digital cameras, and this is now the medium that I prefer for these subjects. To date, I have photographed about seven hundred species of cactus plants and flowers, primarily at the Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum, the Desert Botanical Garden, Tohono Chul, Tucson Botanical Gardens, the B&B Cactus Farm, and the deserts of Arizona and Mexico. The photographs that follow represent a small glimpse at a subject with an endless horizon. Photographing cactus plants and flowers, while not difficult, does present a variety of interesting challenges. Many species bloom only at night, with flowers opening soon after sunset and closing shortly after sunrise. Consequently, artificial lighting is necessary if the blooms are to be photographed during the night. Unless you have the equipment required to set up multiple flash units that simulate a natural setting, using a single flash unit on camera usually leads to disappointing results. I found that the best way to photograph night bloomers was to arrive on site about an hour before dawn and to begin taking pictures just before, during, and shortly after sunrise. This does require careful study of the plant the evening before you photograph so you can set up the camera and tripod in the optimal location. Knowing with certainty that a particular bud will open on a specific night is critical since flowering of many of these species is usually confined to a narrow space of nights.

xi

On one occasion, when I was trying to photograph an Organ Pipe Cactus in bloom, I received word that a large plant near the entrance to the Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum would bloom that night. If I could get there just before dawn, there should be an ample number of flowers to work with. Because I lived more than an hour away from the museum, I set my alarm for 3:00 a.m. and drove to the museum to arrive in ample time. Much to my chagrin, not a single flower was to be seen—they had blossomed and reclosed hours earlier. What had happened, and what no one had thought about, was that the plants were directly under some very bright security lights; the plants burst into flower at dusk, the lights came on automatically at dark, and the plants assumed the sun had come up and dutifully closed! Another lesson learned. Photographing plants in bright sunlight also presents problems. The range of reflected light from the shadow areas of the plant to highlights in the flowers often exceed the ability of the camera to record essential details of the entire subject. Photographing in open shade or shading the subject with a translucent white photographic umbrella works well (see adjacent John Schaefer photographing a cactus flower. photographs). Desert plants are often in environments cluttered with weeds, rocks, roots, and distracting objects. To isolate the plant and flowers, I often surround it with black construction paper. My backpack includes a pair of thick leather gloves, packets of black paper, tweezers and tongs, scissors, and Band-Aids (useful for inadvertent encounters with spines, etc.). Most of my photographs were taken with a macro lens, though for tall cacti I used a telephoto lens. Minimal processing of the digital files, either generated by scanning transparency films or using digital data from the camera, was done with Photoshop, with care Shielding the plant in open shade with a transbeing taken to maintain the color values of the orig- lucent umbrella reduces the harsh shadows generated by direct sunlight. inal subject.

xii

The photographs that follow are a selection from the many I have made over a period of three decades. I have included representative species of most of the common genera of cacti that occur in the U.S. Southwest and Mexico. These fascinating plants, native to the Americas, have become objects of interest to professional botanists as well as avid gardeners around the world; as a result, plant nurseries have led to their worldwide spread. Cacti native to South America often do well in similar environments in North America and elsewhere, and it has become relatively easy The Bishop’s Cap, Astrophytum myriostigma, before blooming time. See photograph on page 10. to accumulate an exotic collection of plants for your own interest and pleasure from authorized dealers. Many species of cacti are legally protected and cannot be moved or disturbed. This adds to the challenges that a photographer will face because being in the right place at the right time with a suitable setting is often a matter of luck. Consequently, many photographs become “the best you can do under the circumstances” rather than the work of art that you envisioned. In reality, it is closely allied to wildlife photography, but the subjects don’t move quite as fast. Naming cacti presents an additional challenge, as DNA analysis and other new technology often results in name changes to individual plants as new botanical information is learned. All nomenclature in this book is generally based on Edward F. Anderson’s 2001 book The Cactus Family. I hope that the following photographs will further the appreciation of these species and encourage the conservation efforts for their continued survival. The U.S. Postal Service unveiled the Cactus Flowers Forever stamps on February 19, 2019.

desert jewels

ARIOCARP US

S

of cacti define the Ariocarpus genus. Considered endangered species, they are exceedingly rare in the wild, though they are available from reputable nurseries and growers. In the harsh, dry conditions of their native habitat, the plants have deep roots, are spineless, and rely on a bitter mucilage to repel browsing animals. In their native habitat, Ariocarpus plants bloom in the fall. E VEN S P ECI E S

4

Ariocarpus retusus

5

Ariocarpus retusus

Ariocarpus retusus

ASTROPHY TUM

S

of cacti make up the Astrophytum genus. The name is derived from the Greek aster, meaning star, and phytum, meaning plant. Their native habitat ranges from south Texas throughout much of the Chihuahan Desert. Plants typically bloom for short periods in the summer. Astrophytum myriostigma is commonly known as Bishop’s Cap because of its obvious resemblance. IX SPECIES

Astrophytum asterias

9

Astrophytum capricorne

10

Astrophytum myriostigma

Astrophytum myriostigma

11

Astrophytum ornatum

CARNEG IE A

T

Cactus, whose scientific name is Carnegiea gigantea, is abundant in suitable habitats in Arizona and its nearest geographical neighbors. At maturity, it can reach a height of 50 feet and more, and its huge arms have made it a recognizable symbol of the desert Southwest. The plant’s roots are shallow but widely spread, a strategy that allows it to collect whatever sparse moisture falls in the area. Its skin is a smooth, leather-like surface that helps the plant to minimize the loss of moisture from evaporation. White waxy flowers sprout from the trunk and are pollinated by bees and White-winged Doves. The fig-like fruit is harvested by local Indigenous tribes. Ribs of the cactus are a hardwood and have been used for the construction of Native dwellings. The Saguaro is the singular species in the Carnegiea genus. H E S A GU A RO

14

Carnegiea gigantea

15

COCHEMIE A

T

is native to the region of the Cochimi Indians in Baja California, Mexico, and consists of five species and two recognized subspecies. The plants generally have hooked spines, flower in late summer or early fall, and are favored and pollinated by hummingbirds. Brilliant red and scarlet flowers have made Cochemiea poselgeri a popular garden plant in regions that remain frost free. H I S GE NU S

Cochemiea pondii

19

Cochemiea poselgeri

CORYP HAN T HA

T

genus of cacti is large and widely distributed. Habitats range from southeastern Montana to Central America and the genus consists of fifty-seven distinct species and twenty subspecies. The name derives from the Greek word meaning “flowering on top.” Plants often have large, showy bell-shaped flowers and bloom during summer days. Like most cactus plants, they rely on color— not scent—to attract pollinators. Over the years, botanists have struggled over which genus a particular specimen should belong to because its characteristics make a visual choice ambiguous. The advent of DNA testing has clarified some of these issues. H E C OR Y P HA NT H A

22

Coryphantha bisbeeana

Coryphantha calipensis

Coryphantha delaetiana

Coryphantha durangensis

23

Coryphantha elephantidens

Coryphantha pycnacantha

25

Coryphantha hesteri

Coryphantha margentea

26

Coryphantha macromeris

Coryphantha scheeri

Coryphantha recurvata

27

Coryphantha pallida

Coryphantha vivipara

29

Coryphantha ramillosa

Coryphantha sulcolanata

CYL INDROPUNTIA

C

known as cholla cactus, are abundant in the U.S. Southwest and northern Mexico. Their name stems from the cylindrical-shaped branches that shape the plants. Many of the species are covered with an abundance of spines that discourage browsing or close contact by animals, though they are favored nesting sites for Cactus Wrens. Plants are readily propagated as broken stems take root, often resulting in small forests of plants. Many naturally occurring hybrids exist, making identification by nonexperts challenging. Y L I ND R O P U NTI A , CO MMO NLY

32

Cylindropuntia acanthocarpa

33

Cylindropuntia arbuscula

Cylindropuntia bigelovii

Cylindropuntia fulgida

Cylindropuntia leptocaulis

34

Cylindropuntia tesajo

Cylindropuntia thurberi

35

Cylindropuntia ramosissima

36

Cylindropuntia spinosior

37

Cylindropuntia versicolor

Cylindropuntia versicolor

ECHINO CAC T US

T

genus, commonly known as barrel cactus, is probably the most familiar cactus of the North American deserts. Six species constitute the genus, which flower in the spring and summer. The crowns of the plant are usually covered with a fine, wooly growth from which the flowers emerge. The plants’ spines are quite stout. The golden barrel (Echinocactus grusonii), native to Queretaro, Mexico, is widely used as a decorative plant in the U.S. Southwest and is easily propagated from seeds, though it is nearly extinct in its native habitat due to exploitive collecting. H E E C H I NOCA CT US

40

Echinocactus grusonii (spineless form)

41

Echinocactus horizonthalonius

Echinocactus setispinus

ECHINO CEREUS

C

as hedgehog cactus, these plants thrive in warm, sunny environments. Flowers are often vividly colored and large, enhancing their popularity among collectors and growers. Plants flower in the spring and summer, and they rely on color—not scent—to attract suitable pollinators. Approximately seventy species are included in the genus, though numerous hybrids exist, which can complicate identification. OMMONLY KNOWN

44

Echinocereus bonkerae

Echinocereus blanckii

Echinocereus boyce-thompsonii

45

Echinocereus baileyi

46

Echinocereus brandegeei

Echinocereus bristolii

47

Echinocereus cinerascens

48

Echinocereus coccineus

49

Echinocereus dasyacanthus

Echinocereus dasyacanthus x triglochidiatus

Echinocereus fasciculatus

51

Echinocereus engelmannii

Echinocereus enneacanthus

52

Echinocereus fendleri

Echinocereus fendleri bonkerae

Echinocereus fendleri var. kuenzleri

53

Echinocereus triglochidiatus

54

Echinocereus (hybrid)

Echinocereus knippelianus

55

Echinocereus leucanthus

Echinocereus mapimiensis

57

Echinocereus luteus subinermis

Echinocereus maritimus var. hancockii

58

Echinocereus mojavensis

Echinocereus nicholii var. llanuraensis

59

Echinocereus papillosus

60

Echinocereus parkeri

Echinocereus pectinatus var. rigidissimus .

61

Echinocereus pensilis xxx

Echinocereus pentalophus

63

Echinocereus polyacanthus huitcholensis

Echinocereus poselgeri

Echinocereus pulchellus (white form)

65

Echinocereus pulchellus

Echinocereus pulchellus

66

Echinocereus polyacanthus

Echinocereus rayonesensis

Echinocereus reichenbachii

Echinocereus russanthus

67

Echinocereus rigidissimus var. rubispinus

Echinocereus russanthus

68

Echinocereus scheeri

Echinocereus stramineus

69

Echinocereus stoloniferus

70

Echinocereus subinermis

Echinocereus tayopensis

71

Echinocereus triglochidiatus

Echinocereus viridiflorus

73

Echinocereus viereckii

Echinocereus websterianus

ESCOBARIA

T

genus has approximately twenty-three recognized species that are widely distributed from Alberta, Canada, to northern Mexico. Plants are usually solitary and can be found in grassland and forest habitats. Because of their often close resemblance to Mammillaria or Coryphantha species, botanists have historically experienced difficulty in classifying many of these cacti. H E E S C OBAR I A

76

Escobaria hesteri

Escobaria laredoi

Escobaria orcuttii

77

Escobaria chihuahuensis var. henricksonii

Escobaria tuberculosa

79

Escobaria vivipara

Escobaria zilziana

FEROCAC T US

F

a genus of barrel cacti common in North American deserts. They are extraordinarily heat tolerant as well as cold tolerant. Their shallow root systems make them susceptible to uprooting in flood conditions, which aids in expanding the range of the plants. Plants have hooked spines that fasten on to passing debris and can be painful when encountered. Bees are among the favored pollinators. Approximately thirty species of Ferocactus have been identified, and a substantial number of subspecies are known. Ferocactus wislezeni blooms in midsummer and displays a crown of brilliant red flowers. After pollination, the flowers close and plum-sized fruits develop in the ensuing weeks. The fruit is filled with dozens of hard, black seeds, which are spread by the animals who feed on the ripened crop during the winter months. E R OC A C T U S I S

82

Ferocactus chrysacanthus

Ferocactus emoryi var. emoryi

83

Ferocactus glaucescens

Ferocactus macrodiscus

85

Ferocactus fordii

Ferocactus hamatacanthus

Ferocactus herrerae

Ferocactus johnsonii

86

Ferocactus townsendianus santa-maria

Ferocactus peninsulae

Ferocactus pottsii

87

Ferocactus wislizeni

GRUSONIA

G

a type of opuntioid cactus that remain debatable as a distinct genus; they are arguably a variety of Cylindropuntia. Plants are distributed in the U.S. Southwest, Baja California, and several northern Mexico states. Forbidding spines characterize most species, discouraging any thoughts of close encounters. Plants tend to spread horizontally close to the ground. R U S O NI A A R E

90

Grusonia clavata

Grusonia emoryi

91

Grusonia invicta

Grusonia schottii

Isolatocereus dumortieri

I S O L AT O C E R E U S

T

is a genus comprising a singular species found in arid regions of Central Mexico. It is a tall, multibranched plant growing to heights of fifty feet. The cactus flowers at night, and the blossoms last to midday before closing. A fine specimen can be found in the Desert Botanical Garden in Phoenix. H E I S O L A T O CE R E US

Leuchtenbergia principis

LEUCHTENBERGIA

L

is the sole member of this genus of cacti. Its native habitat is the Chihuahuan Desert of Mexico, and it is difficult to find because of its size and sheltering habitats in the neighborhood of larger plants. It is a popular specimen grown by cactus enthusiasts and can readily be found in cactus nurseries. The plant has brilliant yellow flowers when it blooms. EUCHTENBERGIA PRINCIPIS

Lophophora williamsonii

LOPHOPHORA

L

two species of cacti, one of which— Lophophora williamsii—is more commonly known as Peyote. The plant contains an alkaloid named mescaline that has mind-altering characteristics and is used in religious rites by Native Americans. Possession and use of the plant is restricted by drug laws and has been an ongoing source of public conflict. OP H O P H OR A I NCLUDE S

MAMMILL ARIA

M

one of the largest genera of cacti, comprising hundreds of species. Plants are generally ball-like in shape and small, though some will form a massive mound of plants. Flowers of many species form a circular halo toward the top of the plants, adding to the attractiveness of the plant in bloom. Mammillaria plants are relatively easy to grow and are among the most popular cactus plants for collectors. They do well as houseplants, but care must be taken not to overwater them. AMMILLARIA IS

100

Mammillaria albilanata

Mammillaria aureilanata

Mammillaria backebergiana

10 1

Mammillaria aureilanata

102

Mammillaria berkiana

Mammillaria blossfeldiana

103

Mammillaria bocasana

Mammillaria bombycina

105

Mammillaria bocasana

Mammillaria bocensis

106

Mammillaria boolii

Mammillaria canelensis

107

Mammillaria boolii

Mammillaria carmenae

109

Mammillaria carrettii

Mammillaria carnea

Mammillaria crucigera

110

Mammillaria columbiana

Mammillaria compressa

Mammillaria densispina

Mammillaria duwei

111

Mammillaria deherdtiana

112

Mammillaria echinaria

Mammillaria estebanensis

1 13

Mammillaria fraileana

Mammillaria grahamii

115

Mammillaria gasseriana

Mammillaria geminispina

Mammillaria gigantea

Mammillaria glassii nova

116

Mammillaria guerreronis

Mammillaria haageana var. san-angelensis

117

Mammillaria hernandezii

118

Mammillaria grusonii

Mammillaria guelzowiana

Mammillaria hahniana

Mammillaria hertrichiana

119

Mammillaria huitzilopochtli

Mammillaria humboldtii

12 1

Mammillaria heyderi

Mammillaria heyderi

var. gummifera

Mammillaria jaliscana

Mammillaria klisingiana

Mammillaria kraehenbuehlii

123

Mammillaria karwinskiana

Mammillaria lasiacantha

Mammillaria laui var. dasyacantha

124

Mammillaria lenta

Mammillaria lindsayi

125

Mammillaria longiflora var. stampferi

126

Mammillaria magnimamma

Mammillaria marksiana

Mammillaria melaleuca

Mammillaria moelleriana

127

Mammillaria microcarpa

128

Mammillaria mazatlanensis

Mammillaria mazatlanensis

129

Mammillaria matudae

Mammillaria multidigitata

130

Mammillaria montensis

Mammillaria muehlenpfordtii

Mammillaria mystax

Mammillaria nejapensis

13 1

Mammillaria ocotillensis

132

Mammillaria parkinsonii

Mammillaria perbella

133

Mammillaria perbella

Mammillaria perezdelarosae

Mammillaria petrophila

Mammillaria petterssonii

Mammillaria phitauiana

135

Mammillaria plumosa

Mammillaria pilispina

Mammillaria prolifera

136

Mammillaria polythele inermis

Mammillaria pottsii

Mammillaria pseudoperbella

Mammillaria rekoi var. leptacantha

137

Mammillaria rekoi

138

Mammillaria ritteriana

Mammillaria rhodantha var. mccartenii

Mammillaria rubida

139

Mammillaria rubrograndis

140

Mammillaria schiedeana

Mammillaria schumannii

141

Mammillaria scrippsiana

Mammillaria sempervivi

Mammillaria senilis

Mammillaria sonorensis

142

Mammillaria sonorensis

Mammillaria sphaerica

143

Mammillaria spinosissima

Mammillaria standleyi

145

Mammillaria supertexta

Mammillaria tesopacensis var. rubraflora

Mammillaria varieaculeata

146

Mammillaria tetrancistra

Mammillaria theresae

1 47

Mammillaria thornberi

148

Mammillaria unihamata

Mammillaria wagneriana

Mammillaria wiesingeri

Mammillaria winterae

149

Mammillaria wrightii

Mammillaria zephyranthoides

Mammilloydia candida

MAMMIL LOYD IA

A

genus of one, Mammilloydia has been a source of confusion among botanists. Mammilloydia candida, in all outward appearances, looks like a typical Mammillaria cactus, but on closer inspection, its seeds are distinctly different, suggesting that the plant has followed its own evolutionary path. Consequently, it has been assigned its own genus. The plant, commonly known as the Snowball Cactus, blooms in the summer and has pink to white flowers. S A

MYRT ILLOCAC T US

T

genus has four members found in northern Mexico. The plants are large, and the fruits, with their taste similar to that of kiwi, are harvested as a delightful delicacy. HE MYRTILLOCACTUS

15 4

Myrtillocactus cochal

155

Myrtillocactus geometrizans

Neolloydia conoidea

NEOL LOYD IA

T

members of this genus have at various times been classified in seven different cactus genera, but detailed studies have concluded that they merit a distinct classification. Neolloydia conoidea, or the Texas Cone Cactus, is found from West Texas throughout the Chihuahuan Desert in northern Mexico. The small plant flowers in the summer, exhibiting bright magenta-colored flowers. Its companion, Neolloydia matehualensis, is rare. HE TWO

Obregonia denegrii

OBREG ONIA

O

a single-species cactus genus, first named in 1925 to honor the leader of the revolution and first president of Mexico. Obregonia denegrii (the Artichoke Cactus), whose name also honors Mexican Minister of Agriculture Ramón P. De Negri, is widespread and occurs in the Chihuahuan Desert, but much of its native habitat has been destroyed. White flowers grace the plant as it blooms in the summer. BR EGO NI A I S

OPUNTIA

O

(commonly named prickly pears) are widespread, found throughout North and South America and the Caribbean. They were brought to Europe shortly after the discovery of the Americas and have now established themselves globally as useful animal fodder as well as a source of fruit for human consumption. Plants are easily hybridized, which can lead to confusion in sorting out the species. The characteristic stems resemble large Ping-Pong paddles, and plants vary from low-lying shrubs to tree-like species. Plants have large, showy flowers and bloom in late spring or summer. P U NT I A C A CTI

162

Opuntia auberi

Opuntia aurea x polyacantha

163

Opuntia basilaris

16 4

Opuntia aureispina

Opuntia pilifera

Opuntia engelmannii

Opuntia erinacea

lindheimeri

var. ursina

165

Opuntia engelmannii

Opuntia hondurensis

167

Opuntia ficus-indica

Opuntia macrocentra

Opuntia lilae

169

Opuntia papyracantha

170

Opuntia santa-rita

Opuntia phaeacantha

Opuntia rufida

17 1

Opuntia quitensis

Pachycereus gaumeri

PACH YCEREUS

T

cacti often resemble giant candelabra and dominate the visual landscapes wherever they occur. Some, like the Senita Cactus (Pachycereus schotti), bloom at night, while others, like the Cardon Cactus (Pachycereus pringlei), are like the Saguaro Cactus and blossom in the daytime. Habitats for the species range from southern Arizona to Honduras and Guatemala. HESE MASSIVE

Pelecyphora aselliformis

P EL ECYP HOR A

T

genus has two members. Both are native to Mexico, and the native populations have been diminished by habitat destruction and overzealous collecting. Both species flower in spring and early summer with attractive magenta flowers. HE PELECYPHORA

PENIOCEREUS

P

are like the ugly ducklings of the plant world that emerge into beautiful swans when they bloom. Plants often look like dead sticks in the wild and have deep, tuberous roots to store precious moisture in their desert habitats. About eighteen species make up the genus, perhaps the most notable being Peniocereus greggii, or the Arizona Queen of the Night. The flowers emit an alluring perfume that attracts the moths that serve as the plant’s pollinators. ENIOCEREUS CACTI

Peniocereus greggii

179

Peniocereus marianus

18 1

Peniocereus viperinus

Sclerocactus whipplei

SCL EROCAC T US

T

cacti are found in the U.S. Southwest and northern Mexico. Devil’s-claw and Fishhook Cactus are common names associated with several species within the genus, which adequately describes their public persona. Despite their often foreboding appearance, they produce lovely and gracious flowers in the summer. H E S E L O W -LYI NG, SPI NY

S TENOCAC T US

M

the Stenocactus genus are native to the Chihuahuan Desert and northern Mexico. Through the efforts of cactus growers, the plants are readily available and grace gardens elsewhere. Attractive flowers nest amid formidable spines when the plant blooms during the summer months. EMBERS OF

Stenocactus coptonogonus

187

Stenocactus crispatus

Stenocactus multicostatus

Stenocactus ochoterenanus

189

Stenocactus vaupelianus

STENOCEREUS

T

of large, tree-like cacti includes species ranging from the Organ Pipe Cactus to the Creeping Devil. Its members are widely distributed and range from southern Arizona to Venezuela and Columbia. Most flower at night but remain open until the following midday. Many species are cultivated and produce large, plum-sized fruits that are harvested and sold in markets. H I S GE NU S

192

Stenocereus pruinosus

Stenocereus marginatus

Stenocereus montanus

193

Stenocereus thurberi littoralis

Strombocactus disciformis

S T ROMBOCAC T US

T

single-species genus comprises a small plant that grows on limestone cliffs in Mexico. It occurs in only a few locales and is precluded from collection. HIS INTERESTING

T HELOCAC T US

T

are small and often favor higher elevations in desert environments. Thelocactus bicolor, more commonly known as the Glory of Texas or Texas Pride, has spectacular flowers whose colors are difficult to duplicate in photographs. Plants are easily available from growers and are easy to cultivate at home. Twelve species are included in this genus, though numerous subspecies have been described. H E L O C A C T US PLA NTS

198

Thelocactus bicolor

Thelocactus heterochromus

199

Thelocactus lausseri

Thelocactus lophothele

20 1

Thelocactus hexaedrophorus

Thelocactus leucacanthus

202

Thelocactus rinconensis

Thelocactus setispinus

Thelocactus tulensis

203

Thelocactus macdowellii

TURBINICARP US

T

are small, hardy plants that are a favorite of cactus growers. As house plants, they are easy to grow and produce attractive flowers. Unfortunately, illegal collecting in the past has led to a serious decline of many of the species in their native habitats, and all have an endangered species status in these locales. Twenty-four species are recognized members of this genus. URBINICARPUS CACTI

206

Turbinicarpus viereckii var. neglectus

Turbinicarpus beguinii

Turbinicarpus pseudomacrochele

207

Turbinicarpus schmiedickeanus

Index

Ariocarpus retusus, 4, 5 Astrophytum asterias, 8 Astrophytum capricorne, 9 Astrophytum myriostigma, xii, 10 Astrophytum ornatum, 11 Carnegiea gigantea, 14, 15 Cochemiea pondii, 18 Cochemiea poselgeri, 19 Coryphantha bisbeeana, 22 Coryphantha calipensis, 22 Coryphantha delaetiana, 22 Coryphantha durangensis, 22 Coryphantha elephantidens, 23 Coryphantha hesteri, 25 Coryphantha macromeris, 26 Coryphantha margentea, 25 Coryphantha pallida, 27 Coryphantha pycnacantha, 24 Coryphantha ramillosa, 29 Coryphantha recurvata, 26 Coryphantha scheeri, 26 Coryphantha sulcolanata, 29 Coryphantha vivipara, 28 Cylindropuntia acanthocarpa, 32 Cylindropuntia arbuscula, 33 Cylindropuntia bigelovii, 33 Cylindropuntia fulgida, 33 Cylindropuntia leptocaulis, 33 Cylindropuntia ramosissima, 35 Cylindropuntia spinosior, 36 Cylindropuntia tesajo, 34 Cylindropuntia thurberi, 34 Cylindropuntia versicolor, 37

Echinocactus grusonii (spineless form), 40 Echinocactus horizonthalonius, 41 Echinocactus setispinus, 41 Echinocereus (hybrid), 54 Echinocereus baileyi, 45 Echinocereus blanckii, 44 Echinocereus bonkerae, 44 Echinocereus boyce-thompsonii, 44 Echinocereus brandegeei, 46 Echinocereus bristolii, 46 Echinocereus cinerascens, 47 Echinocereus coccineus, 48 Echinocereus dasyacanthus, 49 Echinocereus dasyacanthus x triglochidiatus, 49 Echinocereus engelmannii, 51 Echinocereus enneacanthus, 51 Echinocereus fasciculatus, 50 Echinocereus fendleri, 52 Echinocereus fendleri bonkerae, 52 Echinocereus fendleri var. kuenzleri, 52 Echinocereus knippelianus, ii, 54 Echinocereus leucanthus, 55 Echinocereus luteus subinermis, 57 Echinocereus mapimiensis, 56 Echinocereus maritimus var. hancockii, 57 Echinocereus mojavensis, 58 Echinocereus nicholii var. llanuraensis, 58 Echinocereus papillosus, 59 Echinocereus parkeri, 60 Echinocereus pectinatus var. rigidissimus, 60 Echinocereus pensilis, 61 Echinocereus pentalophus, 62 Echinocereus polyacanthus, 66 Echinocereus polyacanthus huitcholensis, 63

210

Echinocereus poselgeri, 63 Echinocereus pulchellus, 65 Echinocereus pulchellus (white form), 64 Echinocereus rayonesensis, 66 Echinocereus reichenbachii, 66 Echinocereus rigidissimus var. rubispinus, 67 Echinocereus russanthus, 66 Echinocereus scheeri, 68 Echinocereus stoloniferus, 69 Echinocereus stramineus, 68 Echinocereus subinermis, 70 Echinocereus tayopensis, 70 Echinocereus triglochidiatus, 53, 71 Echinocereus viereckii, 73 Echinocereus viridiflorus, 72 Echinocereus websterianus, 73 Escobaria chihuahuensis var. henricksonii, 77 Escobaria hesteri, 76 Escobaria laredoi, 76 Escobaria orcuttii, 76 Escobaria tuberculosa, 78 Escobaria vivipara, 79 Escobaria zilziana, 79 Ferocactus chrysacanthus, 82 Ferocactus emoryi var. emoryi, 82 Ferocactus fordii, 85 Ferocactus glaucescens, 83 Ferocactus hamatacanthus, 85 Ferocactus herrerae, 85 Ferocactus johnstonii, 85 Ferocactus macrodiscus, 84 Ferocactus peninsulae, 86 Ferocactus pottsii, 86 Ferocactus townsendianus santa-maria, 86 Ferocactus wislizeni, 87 Grusonia clavata, 90 Grusonia emoryi, 90 Grusonia invicta, 91 Grusonia schottii, 91 Isolatocereus dumortieri, 92 Leuchtenbergia principis, 94 Lophophora williamsonii, 96

Mammillaria albilanata, 100 Mammillaria aureilanata, 100, 101 Mammillaria backebergiana, 100 Mammillaria berkiana, 102 Mammillaria blossfeldiana, 102 Mammillaria bocasana, 103, 105 Mammillaria bocensis, 105 Mammillaria bombycina, 104 Mammillaria boolii, 106, 107 Mammillaria canelensis, 106 Mammillaria carmenae, 108 Mammillaria carnea, 109 Mammillaria carrettii, 109 Mammillaria columbiana, 110 Mammillaria compressa, 110 Mammillaria crucigera, 109 Mammillaria deherdtiana, 111 Mammillaria densispina, 110 Mammillaria duwei, 110 Mammillaria echinaria, 112 Mammillaria estebanensis, 112 Mammillaria fraileana, 113 Mammillaria gasseriana, 115 Mammillaria geminispina, 115 Mammillaria gigantea, 115 Mammillaria glassii nova, 115 Mammillaria grahamii, 114 Mammillaria grusonii, 118 Mammillaria guelzowiana, 118 Mammillaria guerreronis, 116 Mammillaria haageana var. san-angelensis, 116 Mammillaria hahniana, 118 Mammillaria hernandezii, 117 Mammillaria hertrichiana, 118 Mammillaria heyderi, 121 Mammillaria heyderi var. gummifera, 121 Mammillaria huitzilopochtli, 119 Mammillaria humboldtii, 120 Mammillaria jaliscana, 121 Mammillaria karwinskiana, 123 Mammillaria klisingiana, 121 Mammillaria kraehenbuehlii, 122 Mammillaria lasiacantha, 123 Mammillaria laui var. dasyacantha, 123 Mammillaria lenta, 124 Mammillaria lindsayi, 124

211

Mammillaria longiflora var. stampferi, 125 Mammillaria magnimamma, 126 Mammillaria marksiana, 126 Mammillaria matudae, 129 Mammillaria mazatlanensis, 128 Mammillaria melaleuca, 126 Mammillaria microcarpa, 127 Mammillaria moelleriana, 126 Mammillaria montensis, 130 Mammillaria muehlenpfordtii, 130 Mammillaria multidigitata, 129 Mammillaria mystax, 130 Mammillaria nejapensis, 130 Mammillaria ocotillensis, 131 Mammillaria parkinsonii, 132 Mammillaria perbella, 132, 133 Mammillaria perezdelarosae, 133 Mammillaria petrophila, 133 Mammillaria petterssonii, 133 Mammillaria phitauiana, 134 Mammillaria pilispina, 135 Mammillaria plumosa, 135 Mammillaria polythele inermis, 136 Mammillaria pottsii, 136 Mammillaria prolifera, 135 Mammillaria pseudoperbella, 136 Mammillaria rekoi, 137 Mammillaria rekoi var. leptacantha, 136 Mammillaria rhodantha var. mccartenii, 138 Mammillaria ritteriana, 138 Mammillaria rubida, 138 Mammillaria rubrograndis, 139 Mammillaria schiedeana, 140 Mammillaria schumannii, 140 Mammillaria scrippsiana, 141 Mammillaria sempervivi, 141 Mammillaria senilis, 141 Mammillaria sonorensis, 141, 142 Mammillaria sphaerica, 142 Mammillaria spinosissima, 143 Mammillaria standleyi, 144 Mammillaria supertexta, 145 Mammillaria tesopacensis var. rubraflora, 145 Mammillaria tetrancistra, 146 Mammillaria theresae, 146 Mammillaria thornberi, 147

Mammillaria unihamata, 148 Mammillaria varieaculeata, 145 Mammillaria wagneriana, 148 Mammillaria wiesingeri, 148 Mammillaria winterae, 148 Mammillaria wrightii, 149 Mammillaria zephyranthoides, 149 Mammilloydia candida, 150 Myrtillocactus cochal, 154 Myrtillocactus geometrizans, 155 Neolloydia conoidea, 157 Obregonia denegri, 159 Opuntia auberi, 162 Opuntia aurea x polyacantha, 162 Opuntia aureispina, 164 Opuntia basilaris, 163 Opuntia engelmannii, 165 Opuntia engelmannii lindheimeri, 164 Opuntia erinacea var. ursina, 164 Opuntia ficus-indica, 167 Opuntia hondurensis, 166 Opuntia lilae, 168 Opuntia macrocentra, 167 Opuntia papyracantha, 169 Opuntia phaeacantha, 170 Opuntia pilifera, 164 Opuntia quitensis, 171 Opuntia rufida, 170 Opuntia santa-rita, 170 Pachycereus gaumeri, 172 Pelecyphora aselliformis, 174 Peniocereus greggii, 178 Peniocereus marianus, 180 Peniocereus viperinus, 181 Sclerocactus whipplei, 182 Stenocactus coptonogonus, 186 Stenocactus crispatus, 187 Stenocactus multicostatus, 187 Stenocactus ochoterenanus, 188 Stenocactus vaupelianus, 189 Stenocereus marginatus, 192 Stenocereus montanus, 192

212

Stenocereus pruinosus, 192 Stenocereus thurberi littoralis, 193 Strombocactus disciformis, 194 Thelocactus bicolor, 198 Thelocactus heterochromus, 198 Thelocactus hexaedrophorus, 201 Thelocactus lausseri, 199 Thelocactus leucacanthus, 201

Thelocactus lophothele, 200 Thelocactus macdowellii, 203 Thelocactus rinconensis, 202 Thelocactus setispinus, 202 Thelocactus tulensis, 202 Turbinicarpus beguinii, 206 Turbinicarpus pseudomacrochele, 206 Turbinicarpus schmiedickeanus, 207 Turbinicarpus viereckii var. neglectus, 206