Ariocarpus is a genus of little, slow-growing cacti that belong to the deserts of northeastern Mexico. These cacti are known for their striking appearance and their capability to thrive in some of the harshest environments on earth.
There are several species of Ariocarpus, but they all share some typical characteristics. They are small, low-growing cacti that typically form clumps or mounds. They have thick, fleshy stems that are typically covered in a thick layer of woolly hairs or spinal columns, which help safeguard them from the intense sunlight and severe temperatures of the desert.
Among the most distinguishing characteristics of Ariocarpus are its flowers. These cacti produce beautiful, big, white, or pink flowers that are frequently aromatic and only bloom for a short time each year. The flowers are followed by little, fleshy fruits that contain seeds, which can be utilized to propagate new plants.
Ariocarpus cacti are extremely treasured by collectors and enthusiasts for their special appeal and rarity. In the wild, these cacti are threatened by habitat loss, overcollection, and prohibited trade. As a result, numerous species of Ariocarpus are now protected by law, and it is prohibited to gather or trade them without authorization.
For those interested in cultivating Ariocarpus, it is necessary to keep in mind that these cacti are slow-growing and need unique care. They prefer well-draining soil and need to be watered sparingly, as they are prone to rot if they are overwatered. They also require intense, indirect sunlight and ought to be safeguarded from extreme temperatures and frost.
In conclusion, Ariocarpus is a genus of small, slow-growing cacti that are prized for their special beauty and strength. While these plants require special care, they are a fulfilling and interesting addition to any collection. Similar to all plants, it is important to respect their natural environments and only get them from reliable sources.
Amazon Succulent Plant Food:Here are the 30 Types Of Popular Ariocarpus Pictorial Guide:
- Ariocarpus Agavoides
- Ariocarpus Agavoides subs. Sanluisensis
- Ariocarpus Fissuratus
- Ariocarpus Fissuratus Cv. Godzilla
- Ariocarpus Fissuratus Cv. Green Coral
- Ariocarpus Fissuratus Var. Intermedius
- Ariocarpus Fissuratus Var. Lloydii
- Ariocarpus Kotschoubeyanus
- Ariocarpus Kotschoubeyanus Subs. Albiflorus
- Ariocarpus Kotschoubeyanus Subs. Sladkovskyi
- Ariocarpus Kotschoubeyanus Var. Elephantidens
- Ariocarpus Kotschoubeyanus Var. Macdowellii
- Ariocarpus Retusus
- Ariocarpus Retusus Cv. Cauliflower
- Ariocarpus Retusus Cv. Frumdosus
- Ariocarpus Retusus Cv. Maruibo
- Ariocarpus Retusus Subs. Scanpharostroides
- Ariocarpus Retusus Subs. Pectinatus
- Ariocarpus Retusus Var. Furfuraceus
- Ariocarpus Retusus Cv. Mituibo
- Ariocarpus Scaphirostris
- Ariocarpus Trigonus
- Ariocarpus Trigonus Var. Horacekii
- Ariocarpus Confusus
- Ariocarpus Bravoanus
- Ariocarpus Bravoanus Subsp. Hintonii
- Ariocarpus Furfuraceus
- Ariocarpus Elongatus
- Ariocarpus Lloydii
- Ariocarpus Macdowellii
- How To Grow And Care For Ariocarpus
- How To Propagate Ariocarpus
- Top 5 FAQ And Answers For Ariocarpus
- Top 10 Interesting Facts About Ariocarpus
Ariocarpus Agavoides
Ariocarpus Agavoides is a little, slow-growing succulent plant type that is native to the deserts of northeastern Mexico. It is extremely valued by collectors and enthusiasts of cacti and other succulents for its distinct look and rarity in growing.
Ariocarpus Agavoides subs. Sanluisensis
Ariocarpus Agavoides Subs. Sanluisensis is a subspecies of the cactus plant Ariocarpus Agavoides. It is a slow-growing, small, and unusual plant that belongs to the San Luis Potosi region in Mexico. It has a distinctive shape with a round, flattened body, and a popular central spine. The plant produces beautiful, pinkish-white flowers in summertime, making it a prized addition to cactus collections. Its wild populations are threatened by environmental loss and over-collection, making it a critically endangered species.
Ariocarpus Fissuratus
Ariocarpus Fissuratus is a small, slow-growing cactus species belonging to the Chihuahuan Desert in Mexico. It generally grows in rocky, limestone terrain and is known for its distinctive fissured stem, which permits it to blend in with its surroundings. The plant produces small, white, or pink flowers in late summer or early fall and is extremely valued by collectors for its special appearance and rarity in the wild. Ariocarpus fissuratus is likewise known by the typical names “living rock cactus” and “Chisos mountain star.”
Ariocarpus Fissuratus Cv. Godzilla
Ariocarpus Fissuratus Cv. Godzilla is a cultivar of the Ariocarpus fissuratus type, a little, slow-growing cactus native to northern Mexico. It is named after the popular film monster due to its striking and unique look, featuring big, flattened, and heavily fissured green-grey stems. This cactus is highly searched for by collectors and needs specific care, such as well-draining soil and protection from severe temperatures, to prosper.
Ariocarpus Fissuratus Cv. Green Coral
Ariocarpus Fissuratus Cv. Green Coral is a small, slow-growing cactus that originates from northern Mexico. It has a special, coral-like look, with distinct green, fan-shaped ribs and clusters of pinkish-white flowers. This cactus prefers well-drained soil and can endure heat and low humidity. It is highly treasured among cactus enthusiasts for its striking appearance and is commonly grown as a houseplant or in outside rock gardens.
Ariocarpus Fissuratus Var. Intermedius
Ariocarpus Fissuratus Var. Intermedius is a small and slow-growing cactus species that is native to northern Mexico. It has a round, flattened shape with distinctive cracks or furrows on its surface area, which help it mix into its rocky desert habitat. This cactus produces small, pink, or white flowers in the late summer season, and it is extremely prized by collectors for its unique appearance and rarity in cultivation. Nevertheless, the species is likewise threatened by environmental loss due to urbanization and agriculture, and it is noted as endangered in its native range.
Ariocarpus Fissuratus Var. Lloydii
Ariocarpus Fissuratus Var. Lloydii is an uncommon and special type of cactus belonging to northern Mexico. It is known for its unique fissured, dome-shaped stem and gorgeous white or pink flowers that bloom in late summer. This species is highly valued by collectors due to its sluggish development and rarity, and it needs careful attention to prosper in its growth. Ariocarpus Fissuratus Var. Lloydii is considered threatened in the wild due to habitat loss and over-collection, making preservation efforts essential for its survival.
Ariocarpus Kotschoubeyanus
Ariocarpus Kotschoubeyanus is a little, slow-growing cactus type native to northeastern Mexico. It has a distinct shape with a flattened, oval, or circular body and a thick, woolly crown of spinal columns on top.
Ariocarpus Kotschoubeyanus Subs. Albiflorus
Ariocarpus Kotschoubeyanus Subs. Albiflorus is an unusual subspecies of the Ariocarpus Kotschoubeyanus cactus, known for its striking white flowers. This little, slow-growing cactus belongs to the deserts of northeastern Mexico and is highly treasured by collectors for its special look and scarcity. It has a globular shape with a flattened top, covered in a thick selection of tubercles and spines. This subspecies is highly endangered in the wild due to habitat damage and over-collecting.
Ariocarpus Kotschoubeyanus Subs. Sladkovskyi
Ariocarpus Kotschoubeyanus Subs. Sladkovskyi is an endangered and uncommon cactus species belonging to Mexico. It has a small and globular shape with a textured surface, ranging in color from grayish-green to bluish-gray. This species is highly valued by collectors due to its special appearance and restricted accessibility in the wild. Its environment is threatened by environmental loss and over-collection, making preservation efforts crucial to guarantee its survival.
Ariocarpus Kotschoubeyanus Var. Elephantidens
Ariocarpus Kotschoubeyanus Var. Elephantidens are a special and rare type of cactus native to northeastern Mexico. It is characterized by its large, thick, and wrinkled stems that resemble the skin of an elephant. The plant produces little white flowers that bloom in the late summer and early fall. Due to its distinctive appearance and limited distribution, this species is extremely valued by collectors and is threatened in the wild.
Ariocarpus Kotschoubeyanus Var. Macdowellii
Ariocarpus Kotschoubeyanus Var. Macdowellii is a slow-growing, little cactus species that belongs to the genus Ariocarpus. It belongs to Mexico and is understood for its special and striking look, with a flat, disc-shaped body and a thick, woolly crown of hairs that cover its surface. It is extremely valued by collectors for its rarity and beauty, and it is often grown as an ornamental plant in specialized greenhouses and collections.
Ariocarpus Retusus
Ariocarpus Retusus is a rare and slow-growing cactus type belonging to the Chihuahuan Desert of northeastern Mexico. It has a distinct round shape with a flattened top and a deep main groove. The cactus is covered in little, warty bumps that help it maintain moisture in its extreme desert environment. Ariocarpus Retusus produces striking, big white or pink flowers that flower in the summer season. Due to its unique appearance and endangered status, this species is highly demanded by collectors and is protected under Mexican law.
Ariocarpus Retusus Cv. Cauliflower
Ariocarpus Retusus Cv. Cauliflower is a cultivar of the Ariocarpus Retusus cactus species, understood for its distinct appearance resembling a cauliflower. This slow-growing cactus belongs to the deserts of northern Mexico and has a flattened, round shape with a depressed center. It produces little white or pink flowers in the late summer season, and its distinct appearance makes it a popular choice among collectors of rare and unusual cacti.
Ariocarpus Retusus Cv. Frumdosus
Ariocarpus Retusus Cv. Frumdosus is a cultivar of the slow-growing, succulent cactus species Ariocarpus Retusus. It is native to Mexico and is extremely treasured amongst cactus enthusiasts for its appealing and unique look, which features a big, flattened, and frequently wrinkled stem covered in thick, woolly hairs. The plant produces small, white, or pink flowers that bloom in late summer or early fall. Due to habitat loss and overcollection, Ariocarpus Retusus cv. Frumdosus is thought to be a threatened species in the wild.
Ariocarpus Retusus Cv. Maruibo
Ariocarpus Retusus Cv. Maruibo is a little, slow-growing cactus type belonging to the Chihuahuan Desert in Mexico. It has a distinct spherical shape and is covered in white or grayish-white fuzz. The plant produces little pink or white flowers in the summer season and needs well-draining soil and brilliant, indirect sunlight to grow. Due to overcollection and habitat destruction, it is considered a threatened species in the wild.
Ariocarpus Retusus Subs. Scanpharostroides
Ariocarpus Retusus Subs. Scapharostroides is a subspecies of the Ariocarpus Retusus cactus species, belonging to Mexico. It is a little, slow-growing plant that generally grows in rocky areas or on hillsides. The plant has a distinct flattened or disc-shaped body with little tufts of woolly hairs on its surface area and produces stunning pink or white flowers. Due to habitat loss and over-collection, it is considered a susceptible species in the wild.
Ariocarpus Retusus Subs. Pectinatus
Ariocarpus Retusus Subs. Pectinatus is a species of small cactus belonging to Mexico, understood for its distinctive and complex patterns of white, yellow, and green markings on its surface. It grows in arid and rocky environments and is extremely valued by collectors for its special appearance and rarity.
Ariocarpus Retusus Var. Furfuraceus
Ariocarpus Retusus Var. Furfuraceus is a slow-growing and small species of cactus belonging to Mexico. It has a distinctive rounded shape and is covered in great white hairs, giving it a fuzzy look. This plant needs a rocky and dry environment to thrive and is commonly grown as a decorative plant in rock gardens or as a potted plant. It is also understood for its medical residential or commercial properties, as it has actually been traditionally utilized to deal with a variety of conditions consisting of fever, inflammation, and pain.
Ariocarpus Retusus Cv. Mituibo
Ariocarpus Retusus Cv. Mituibo is a small, slow-growing cactus species native to Mexico. It has a distinctive flattened, star-shaped appearance and a rough texture on its surface. This plant is extremely valued for its ornamental appeal and is typically cultivated by cactus enthusiasts. It prefers well-drained soil and intense sunshine and needs careful watering to prevent root rot. In spite of being reasonably hardy, Ariocarpus Retusus cv. Mituibo is considered a threatened species in its natural habitat due to habitat loss and unlawful collection for the horticultural trade.
Ariocarpus Scaphirostris
Ariocarpus Scaphirostris is a type of cactus belonging to Mexico. It has a little, globular body with a flattened top and a deep, main groove. The body is covered in small, white hair and bears clusters of pinkish flowers. This type is highly treasured by collectors for its distinct look and slow growth rate. It is likewise listed as threatened due to environmental loss and over-collection in the wild.
Ariocarpus Trigonus
Ariocarpus Trigonus is a distinct and unusual species of cactus native to Mexico. The plant has a sluggish growth rate and requires very little watering, making it a popular choice amongst cactus enthusiasts.
Ariocarpus Trigonus Var. Horacekii
Ariocarpus Trigonus Var. Horacekii is an extremely in-demand and unusual type of cactus that is endemic to Mexico. This little, slow-growing cactus has a unique triangular shape and is covered in dense woolly hairs that secure it from the intense desert sun. It produces stunning pink or white flowers that bloom in late summer, making it a prized addition to any cactus collection. Due to its sluggish development and restricted circulation, Ariocarpus Trigonus Var. Horacekii is extremely endangered in the wild and is heavily secured by preservation laws.
Ariocarpus Confusus
Ariocarpus Confusus is a type of little, slow-growing cactus native to Mexico. It has a flattened, star-shaped body and woolly areoles with spinal columns emerging from them. The plant produces pink or white flowers in the summertime and needs well-draining soil and partial shade to grow. It is a popular decorative plant among cactus enthusiasts and collectors.
Ariocarpus Bravoanus
Ariocarpus Bravoanus is a type of cactus native to Mexico, particularly in the state of Tamaulipas. It is a little, slow-growing plant that normally grows in rocky, limestone areas. The plant has a globular or a little flattened shape, with a grayish-green or bluish-green body covered in white or yellowish-white woolly hairs. The plant produces little, pinkish-white flowers in late summer or early fall. Ariocarpus Bravoanus is an uncommon and endangered species due to environmental loss and unlawful collection for the plant trade.
Ariocarpus Bravoanus Subsp. Hintonii
Ariocarpus Bravoanus Subsp. Hintonii is a slow-growing and unusual cactus type that is native to northeastern Mexico. It has a globular shape and is identified by its special woolly and hairy appearance, which helps protect it from the intense heat and sun. This species usually grows in rocky locations and needs well-drained soil and very little watering. It produces little pink flowers that bloom in the late summertime. Due to habitat loss and over-collection, A. Bravoanus Subsp. Hintonii is considered a threatened species in the wild.
Ariocarpus Furfuraceus
Ariocarpus Furfuraceus is a little, slow-growing cactus type that is belonging to northern Mexico. It has a distinct appearance, with a thick, grey-green body covered in great white scales or fur-like fibers. This type is extremely valued among cactus enthusiasts for its gorgeous and distinct appearance, however, is likewise threatened by over-collection and habitat damage.
Ariocarpus Elongatus
Ariocarpus Elongatus is a small, slow-growing cactus species native to Mexico. It typically has a solitary, elongated stem that is greenish-gray in color and covered in white hairs. The plant produces pink or white flowers that bloom in the summer months. This species is highly prized among collectors and is endangered in the wild due to habitat loss and over-collection.
Ariocarpus Lloydii
Ariocarpus Lloydii is a small, slow-growing cactus species native to the Mexican states of Coahuila and Nuevo Leon. It has a distinct rounded or flattened shape, with a woolly crown of white or yellowish spines and pink or purple flowers. Due to over-harvesting for the ornamental plant trade and habitat destruction, it is listed as a vulnerable species and is protected by Mexican law.
Ariocarpus Macdowellii
Ariocarpus Macdowellii is a rare and endangered cactus species native to northeastern Mexico. It is a small and slow-growing plant that typically grows in rocky, arid regions. It has a distinctive appearance, with a round, flattened stem covered in a dense layer of white woolly hairs and small pink or white flowers that bloom in the summer. The plant is highly valued by collectors, but its populations are threatened by habitat loss and over-collection.
How To Grow And Care For Ariocarpus
Ariocarpus is a genus of cacti known for its unique, flattened, and button-like appearance. If you are interested in growing and caring for Ariocarpus, here are some tips:
- Soil and Potting: Ariocarpus prefers well-draining soil that is composed of a mixture of sand, perlite, and peat. It is best to plant the cactus in a shallow pot that is just large enough to accommodate its roots.
- Sunlight: Ariocarpus thrives in bright sunlight. However, it is important to acclimate the plant to the sun gradually, as it can be sensitive to sunburn. Start by placing the cactus in partial shade for a few hours a day, gradually increasing the amount of sun exposure over time.
- Watering: Ariocarpus is a desert plant and does not require frequent watering. Water the plant deeply only when the soil is completely dry. Overwatering can kill a plant by causing root rot.
- Fertilizing: Ariocarpus does not require much fertilization. A light application of a balanced fertilizer once a month during the growing season (spring and summer) should be sufficient.
- Temperature: Ariocarpus can tolerate a wide range of temperatures but prefers warm and dry conditions. During the winter, it is important to keep the plant dry and protect it from frost.
- Pests and Diseases: Ariocarpus is generally pest- and disease-resistant. However, it is important to keep an eye out for mealybugs, which can infest the plant and cause damage.
- Propagation: Ariocarpus can be propagated by seed or by cuttings. Seed propagation is the most common method and can be done by sowing the seeds in well-draining soil and keeping them in a warm, bright location until they germinate.
By following these tips, you can successfully grow and care for Ariocarpus, a unique and interesting cactus species.
How To Propagate Ariocarpus
Ariocarpus is a genus of cactus-like succulent plants that are native to North America, particularly Texas and Mexico. They are popular among collectors and growers because of their unique appearance and their ability to thrive in a range of growing conditions. Propagating Ariocarpus can be done through various methods, such as seed propagation, grafting, or vegetative propagation.
Here are the steps for propagating Ariocarpus through each of these methods:
Seed propagation:
- Collect ripe seeds from a mature Ariocarpus plant.
- Sow the seeds in well-draining soil mixed with some perlite or sand mixed in for better drainage.
- Keep the soil moist and warm, ideally around 70–80°F (21-27°C).
- Germination can take several weeks to a few months, so be patient.
- Once the seedlings have grown a few true leaves, you can transplant them to individual pots with well-draining soil.
Grafting:
- Choose a rootstock that is compatible with Ariocarpus, such as a Trichocereus species.
- Cut a small section of the Ariocarpus plant and remove any spines or areoles.
- Cut a matching section from the rootstock and make a clean, flat cut.
- Join the two sections together and hold them in place with rubber bands or grafting tape.
- Keep the grafted plant in a warm, bright spot and mist it regularly until it establishes.
Vegetative propagation:
- Ariocarpus can produce offsets or pups from the base of the main stem.
- Carefully separate the offset from the mother plant, making sure to leave some roots intact.
- Plant the offset in a well-draining soil mix and keep it moist but not too wet.
- Alternatively, you can also propagate Ariocarpus from stem cuttings, but this method is less common and requires more skill.
Propagation can be a fun and rewarding way to grow your Ariocarpus collection or share plants with other enthusiasts. However, keep in mind that some Ariocarpus species are endangered in the wild, so make sure to source your plants responsibly and follow ethical practices when propagating them.
Top 5 FAQ And Answers For Ariocarpus
Here are the top 5 frequently asked questions and their answers about Ariocarpus:
Q: What is Ariocarpus?
A: Ariocarpus is a genus of small, slow-growing cacti that are native to Mexico and the southern United States. They are known for their distinctive appearance, which often includes a flat, round, or oval shape and a thick, woolly covering.
Q: How do I care for my Ariocarpus plant?
A: Ariocarpus are desert plants that require minimal water and a lot of sunlight. They should be kept in well-draining soil and watered sparingly, usually only once every few weeks or even months. They also require protection from extreme temperatures and should be kept at a consistent temperature between 60 and 80 degrees Fahrenheit.
Q: Can Ariocarpus be grown from seed?
A: Yes, Ariocarpus can be grown from seed, but it can be a slow and challenging process. The seeds need to be planted in well-draining soil and kept moist until they germinate, which can take several weeks or even months. It’s important to keep the soil moist but not wet, as too much moisture can cause the seeds to rot.
Q: Are Ariocarpus plants endangered?
A: Many species of Ariocarpus are considered endangered due to habitat loss and overcollection. It is important to only purchase plants from reputable sources and to never remove plants from the wild.
Q: How long does it take for Ariocarpus to reach maturity?
A: Ariocarpus is a slow-growing plant that can take several years to reach maturity. Some species can take up to 20 years to reach full size. It’s important to be patient and allow the plant to grow at its own pace, as rushing the process can harm the plant.
Top 10 Interesting Facts About Ariocarpus
- Ariocarpus is a genus of small, slow-growing cacti native to northeastern Mexico and southern Texas. They are also known as living rocks or peyote buttons.
- There are five species of Ariocarpus: A. agavoides, A. fissuratus, A. kotschoubeyanus, A. retusus, and A. trigonus. Each species has its own distinct characteristics and appearance.
- The name “Ariocarpus” comes from the Greek words “arios,” meaning “very fat,” and “karpos,” meaning “fruit,” referring to the fleshy and plump appearance of the plant’s stem.
- Ariocarpus cacti are adapted to growing in arid regions and have a unique mechanism for surviving drought conditions. They store water in their thick, fleshy stems and can remain dormant for long periods of time until rain arrives.
- The plant has an unusual growth pattern, with new growth occurring only from the center of the plant’s crown. This means that as the plant ages, it becomes more and more compact, with new growth emerging from within the existing stem.
- Ariocarpus cacti have a long history of being used by indigenous peoples in Mexico for medicinal and spiritual purposes. They were often used in religious ceremonies and as a means of communicating with the gods.
- Ariocarpus plants are popular among collectors and can be quite expensive due to their slow growth and rarity. It is important to note, however, that many species of Ariocarpus are threatened by habitat loss and over-collection.
- The flowers of Ariocarpus are small and pink or white in color. They are pollinated by bees and other insects.
- The fruits of Ariocarpus are small and contain numerous seeds. They are edible but not particularly flavorful.
- Ariocarpus cacti are challenging to grow and require very specific growing conditions. They are best suited to experienced cactus growers who are able to provide the right amount of sunlight, water, and nutrients.
