Lophophora Fricii 5-6 cm

Description

Lophophora Fricii 5-6 cm

Lophophora Williamsii (Peyote Cactus) Product Description

Discover the fascinating world of rare cacti with Lophophora williamsii, commonly known as Peyote. This small, spineless, perennial cactus is native to southern North America (Texas) and Northern Mexico. Renowned for its rich cultural history, unique button-like appearance, and ornamental appeal, it is a prized addition to any serious succulent and cactus collection.

Detailed Description

The Unique “Caespitosa” Growth Habit

The Latin term “Caespitosa” translates to “growing in tufts” or “densely-clumped.” This nursery-produced cultivar is highly sought after because it naturally produces a high volume of axillary shoots. Over time, these offsets grow together to form massive, striking cushions, making it a visually spectacular centerpiece.

Rare Variegated Forms

Variegated Lophophora williamsii var. caespitosa is an exceptionally rare find. These choice specimens are coveted by passionate collectors for their spineless bodies beautifully striped in cream-yellow or soft pink.

Collector’s Note: Variegated specimens appear unpredictably in tiny percentages among seedling batches. They grow more slowly and remain smaller than non-variegated plants. Because their colored areas lack chlorophyll, they are more sensitive to sunburn and fungus—making a well-grown, large variegated Lophophora a true crowning achievement for growers.

Cultivation & Care Guide

While standard Lophophora are hardy, variegated and albino cultivars require precise attention. Use these guidelines to keep your specimen thriving:

• Light Requirements: Provide half-shade or filtered sunlight. Do not expose to prolonged, direct sunlight, especially during intense summer days, as variegated flesh burns easily.

• Soil & Substrate: Requires a highly porous, free-draining mineral substrate to prevent root rot.

• Watering Schedule: Water moderately during the active growing season (Spring to Summer) only when the soil is completely dry.

• Winter Care: Keep completely dry and strictly frost-free throughout the winter months.

• Propagation Note: While some variegated forms grow well on their own roots, true albinos lack chlorophyll entirely and can only survive if grafted onto a strong, green cactus base.

Lophophora Williamsii Subspecies & Cultivar Reference

The Lophophora williamsii group features an incredible array of variations. Use this guide to identify key characteristics of popular subspecies and forms:

Classic & Ribbed Varieties

• L. williamsii (Standard): A globular, glaucous-green or greyish-green spineless body (up to 6 cm tall, 12 cm wide) featuring a massive taproot that can extend over 25 cm underground.

• var. pentagona: Distinctive local form where all heads feature exactly 5 ribs.

• var. pluricostata: Characterized by an unusually high number of ribs.

• var. texana (texensis): A phenotype native to Texas, featuring grey, pruinose stems with up to 14 flat ribs on mature specimens.

Clumping & Crested Forms

• var. caespitosa: The highly prolific, densely-clumping horticultural clone that forms large cushion mounds.

• var. cristata: A stunning crested form that grows into contorted, brain-like mounds. Highly prized and valuable.

• var. fricii f. cristata: The crested variant of the fricii subspecies.

Colorful & Distinctive Cultivars

• var. fricii: Features beautiful, large, and intensely vibrant pink flowers.

• var. fricii cv. Marbles: A highly variable clone known for its wide, distinctively rounded tubercles.

• var. jourdaniana: Features striking rose-violet to dark pink-red flowers and small, temporary spines on young areoles.

• subs. grymi: Typically grows solitary or in small groups, sporting 6–10 prominent straight ribs and large pinkish-white flowers.

• cv. Kikko: A unique, instantly recognizable cultivar featuring wide, long, pointed tubercles along zigzagged rib edges.