Publication: Kakteen Sukk. “A new subtype of Ariocarpus (Cactaceae)” 54(11): 291 (289-292; photogrs.). 2003 [Nov 2003]
Description
This plant differs from the standard Ariocarpus retusus, for its short pectinated spines already present in young specimens. The spines persist with the age, but in adult plant they are partially covered by fur.
Similar species: ] f. pectinatus] shows similar pectinated spines, and is much more common in cultivation.
Stem: Dull green, flattened, globose, rounded on top, 3-12cm high, 10-15cm in diameter.
Tubercles: Leaflike divergent, erect, basally compressed, becoming attenuate at the apices, convex or nearly flattened adaxially, 1.5-3cm long, 1-3cm broad, usually nearly as broad as long (or sometime longer than broad)
Spines: 1,2 to 2,0 mm long, dull.
Areoles: At the tips and extending on the upper side of the tubercles, elongated from 2,5 to 20,0 mm long, wooly.
Flowers: Diurnal 4-5cm in diameter., 2-4 2cm long; white to pink
Flowering time: October
Fruit: white, green, or rarely pinkish, 10-25mm long, 3-10mm in diameter.
Remarks: Ariocarpus retusus is an extremely variable species,. Tubercle size and shape vary widely, a terminal areole is sometimes present at the tip. The vast amount of phenotypic variation in the species has led to the erection of several variants.
Origin and Habitat
Mexico, San Louis potosi, To Huizache (?) but plant described from cultivated specimen.
Cultivation and Propagation
This species is slow growing but certainly not as slow as some other types of cacti, it is of easy culture in a well drained non-organic free draining soil compost, with ample water during the growing season. Use of a weak low-nitrogen fertilizer during the growing season can encourage growth. The main threat to their development is root rot. Ariocarpus should be kept dry whenever there is a threat of cold. The appearance of Ariocarpus can benefit greatly by watering the plants from the bottom. This practice will help to keep the “wool” on the top of the plant from becoming matted or discoloured. Need light shade to full sun. Frost Tolerance: Hardy to -10° C.
Propagation: Ariocarpus retusus is probably the easiest species of the genus to raise from seed, but will generally take about 6-10 years to reach flowering size, this rare form is frequently grafted to speed the growth rate.
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