Suculentas \ Cactaceae \ Cactoideae \ Cacteae \ Echinocactus \ grusonii

Echinocactus grusonii
(Hildmann 1891)

Etymology: Dedicated to Hermann Gruson, (1821-1895) German engineer based in Magdeburg and cacti grower.
Origin: Northern Mexico and southern US.

It is one of the most popular plants among enthutiasts. It has got an easy cultivation and a quick growing and can be founded in every collection. Paradoxically this plant is nowadays seriously threatened.
Specimens belonging to the Botanical Garden of Valencia.
Specimens belonging to the Botanical Garden of Valencia.

Globular shaped and can easily reach diameters greater than one meter, they have even described specimens of more than two meters. In some cases because of blows or action of pests, you may lose the apex with what tillering occurs. In old specimens that have not had the right weather conditions globular stagnant growth and abundant proliferation of tillers across its surface may occur.

old specimen that has started producing tillers across its surface.
old specimen that has started producing tillers across its surface.

It reproduces almost exclusively by seed, although their breeding is particularly simple.

industrial cultivation of E. grusonii, Cactus Checa in Cheste (Valencia).
industrial cultivation of E. grusonii, Cactus Checa in Cheste (Valencia).

In his youthful state form handles that gradually merge to form ribs in the adult phase characteristics.

Appearance of a mature plant with tillers.
Appearance of a mature plant with tillers.

One of its main features is the presence of powerful segmented spines of a bright yellow color, so dense that it is often impossible to touch the skin of the plant without pricking a finger. These spines can reach 5 cm and with surprising strength.

Photomicrograph of a thorn.
Photomicrograph of a thorn.

Are extremely resistant to adverse weather conditions endure from extreme sunlight to temperatures of -5 ° C without suffering apparent damage, given its expiration thick hail resist without problem is even moderate snowfall. Not usually affect only pests. His only vulnerability is the apex, which in periods of growth is soft and defenseless.


It takes up to 10 years to reach adulthood moment from which flowers annually.

unripe fruits.
unripe fruits.
Protection Law
CITES
Field
Global Level Cites II
Convenio sobre el Comercio Internacional de Especies Amenazadas de Fauna y Flora Silvestre

Principales Taxones:
Echinocactus grusonii Forma inermis

Echinocactus grusonii Forma inermis

Etymology: No spikes.

It is as powerful warrior who has been taken lance and shield off. Leer Más