Matucana hoxeyi explained

Matucana hoxeyi is a species of cactus in the genus Matucana, native to Peru.[1]

Description

Matucana hoxeyi is identified by its pale yellow-green stems, glaucous, with a diameter of and reaching heights of up to . The plant typically grows either as a single specimen or in clusters. Its spines, initially golden but transitioning to grey, are straight to slightly curved. The plant features up to 10 radial spines, measuring up to in length, and a central spine that can reach .The flowers of Matucana hoxeyi measure approximately in length and red-orange with a subtle hint of violet. The seeds are dark brown and measure .[2]

Distribution

This species is found in the valley of the Río Rupac, Peru at elevations of 1800 to 2350 meters. Plants are found growing around Matucana haynii subsp. myriacantha.

Taxonomy

The plant was first discovered by cactus collector Paul Hoxey in December 2001. The plant was later described in 2010 by Graham Charles in Quepo as Matucana paucicostata subsp. hoxeyi[3]

Notes and References

  1. Web site: Matucana hoxeyi (G.J.Charles) G.J.Charles . Plants of the World Online . 2023-12-17.
  2. Web site: Cactus Explorers Journal Number 7 February 2013. 2023-12-17.
  3. Web site: Cactus Explorers Journal Number 1 August 2011 . 2023-12-17.