Coryphantha pseudechinus

Structure and identification

For the nominate subspecies of Coryphantha pseudechinus (C. pseudoechinus in the monograph), the authors describe ovoid or short-cylindrical stems forming groups through basal offsets. The narrow tubercle groove may contain a yellow gland close to the spine-producing part of the areole. Numerous pale lateral spines and at most one darker central spine change colour as they age. The small flowers are violet-pink. The group described as subsp. laui has pale yellow flowers and finer, partly bristle-like armature. [Dicht and Lüthy 2005, p. 165–166]

Habitat and variation

The monograph associates both groups with Sierra de la Paila in Coahuila. The nominate subspecies occurs on limestone slopes, and the laui group is documented on higher ridges with limestone gravel and rocks. The authors linked gland appearance with the period of active growth and bud formation. [Dicht and Lüthy 2005, p. 165–166]

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