Description
The “thachythele” variety is reported to be distinguished from standard “Leuchtembergia principis” by its rough, sandpaper-like epidermis, but the plants raised from the seeds bought on Köhres seed catalogue (Plant nr. 9459) are not rough at all but shows a strong habit with pruinose blu tubercles that tinge purple during winter rest. Spines are very long too.
Origin and Habitat
North-central Mexico (San Luis Potosi, Chihuahua) Although occurring over a rather large area, these cacti are sparsely scattered and can be difficult to localize.
Cultivation and Propagation
It grow easily from seed in cultivation. Despite being revered by many collectors, they are not too difficult. The Leuchtenbergia has a strong tap root and should have a deep pot to accommodate it. Water carefully, lack of water will make the tip of the tubercles yellow. Too much water will make it rot. Keep dry at minimum temperature of 5° C in winter although will tolerate brief periods to -8 degrees. Sun Exposure: Full sun to light shade.
Propagation:: Seeds.
Notes
Leuchtenbergia is a monotypic genus (having only a single species). However, despite its very different appearance it is closely related to Ferocactus and hybrids have been created between these two genera. This hybrid are known with the name Ferobergia.
Bibliography
Major references and further lectures
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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 Hunt, Nigel Taylor “The New Cactus Lexicon” DH Books, 2006
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Edward F. Anderson “The Cactus Family” Timber Press, 2001
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Nathaniel Lord Britton, Joseph Nelson Rose “Cactaceae: Descriptions and Illustrations of Plants of the Cactus Family” Volume 3, 1922
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Fitz Maurice, B & Fitz Maurice, W.A. 2013. Leuchtenbergia principis. The IUCN Red List of Threatened Species. Version 2014.2. <www.iucnredlist.org>. Downloaded on 10 September 2014.
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