Publication: [Lobivia kupperiana Backeb. 1936]
Description
Although Lobivia kupperiana (Echinopsis) is a long known taxa, it is still rare in collections. It belongs to the Echinopsis lateritia complex that comprises a large number of infraspecific taxa, differing in various combinations of flower colour, spine colour, number and thickness of central spines, and other characters. The taxonomic and geographic boundaries among the segregate species or infraspecific taxa of E. lateritia remain nebulous and controversial. In no place do pure populations exist sympatrically, and all taxa appear completely interfertile. Lobivia kupperiana distinguishes for its flowers that are cream-yellow to yellow-orangish and for its very long needle-like reddish or blackish spines.
Origin and Habitat
Tupiza and adjacent areas, Potosí, Bolivia.
Altitude: 3500-4300 metres above sea level.
Habitat: It grows on rocky slopes in crevices or on gravelly soil.
Cultivation and Propagation
It is a summer grower species that offers no cultivation difficulties. Water regularly in summer (but do not overwater ) Needs a large pot to accommodate a large root system. Use a very draining and porous substrate, keep rather dry in winter.
It is quite frost resistant if kept dry (hardy to -5° C) Outside full sun or afternoon shade, inside needs bright light, and some direct sun.
Bibliography
Major references and further lectures
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Edward Anderson “The Cactus family” Timber Press, Incorporated, 2001
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James Cullen, Sabina G. Knees, H. Suzanne Cubey “The European Garden Flora Flowering Plants: A Manual for the Identification of Plants Cultivated in Europe, Both Out-of-Doors and Under Glass” Cambridge University Press, 11/Aug/2011
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David R Hunt; Nigel P Taylor; Graham Charles; International Cactaceae Systematics Group. “The New Cactus Lexicon” dh books, 2006
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N. L. Britton, J. N. Rose “The Cactaceae. Descriptions and Illustrations of Plants of the Cactus Family.” Volume 4, The Carnegie Institution of Washington, Washington 1923
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