Aztekium hintonii f. proliferum

Aztekium hintonii f. proliferum is a unique and somewhat rare cactus that is a form of the species Aztekium hintonii. Key characteristics and care:

Key Characteristics:

• Proliferation of shoots: It is known for its tendency to produce an unusual amount of new shoots, especially from the base, giving it a clustered appearance.
• Appearance: It is typically a grayish-green, globular to shortly columnar cactus that can grow up to 20 cm tall and 10 cm wide.
• Ribs: It has pronounced ribs with characteristic transverse wrinkles.
• Flowers: Aztekium hintonii produces magenta flowers.
• Habitat: This cactus is endemic to a small area in Mexico and prefers to grow on gypsum and limestone canyons. 

Cultivation:

• Light: Aztekium hintonii f. proliferum requires abundant bright, direct light.
• Watering: Water sparingly, allowing the soil to dry out completely between waterings.
• Soil: Needs well-draining soil, a mixture of clay, loam, and sand is recommended.
• Hardiness: It is hardy to USDA Hardiness Zones 9a-11b.
• Growth: It is a slow-growing cactus, but it grows faster than the standard Aztekium ritterii.
• Propagation: It can be propagated through cuttings or grafting. Grafting is often preferred to enhance growth speed. 

Note: Aztekium hintonii f. proliferum is sometimes confused with Aztekium hintonii f. monstruosum, a form with monstrous and irregularly shaped ribs. The proliferum form is greener, less woolly, and does not produce monstrous or crested apexes.