Aztekium Valdezii

Aztekium Valdezii

This elusive cactus was only discovered in 2011.
You will receive this exact specimen.
Gorgeous rooted, grafted specimen.
Scion measures 3.5"w.
Entire specimen measures 9" tall.
Will be shipped bare root. 

Aztekium valdezii is a rare and recently discovered species of cactus belonging to the genus Aztekium, which is endemic to Mexico. It is known for its small, globular shape, bright green color with horizontal striations, and pinkish-white flowers. It is one of the slowest-growing cacti, both in the wild and in cultivation. 

Key Characteristics:

• Genus: Aztekium.
• Species: valdezii.
• Discovery: Discovered in 2011 by Mario Alberto Valdéz Marroquín in Nuevo León, Mexico.
• Size: Tiny, typically 2-6 cm tall.
• Shape: Star-shaped when viewed from above, simple or branched from the base.
• Color: Bright green with horizontal striations.
• Flowers: Single, nine-petal, white in the center with bright magenta on the outside.
• Ribs: 5, with rounded margins and even, horizontal rib-like formations.
• Spines: Present in the upper half of the stem, flattened, papery, curved, and twisted.
• Growth Rate: Extremely slow.
• Habitat: Found on steep cliff faces with gypsum and limestone gravel in Mexico.
• Grafting: Often grafted to increase growth speed due to its slow growth rate. 

Cultivation:

• Light: Requires at least six hours of sunlight per day. 
• Watering: Water sparingly, allowing the soil to dry out completely between waterings. 
• Soil: Well-draining soil is essential to prevent root rot. 
• Fertilizing: Fertilize once a year during the growing season with a low-nitrogen, high-phosphorus and potassium fertilizer. 
• Repotting: Repot infrequently due to slow growth. 
• Propagation: Usually propagated by seeds, which are very small and have a low germination rate. Grafted offsets can also be used, but success is also limited. 

Rarity and Conservation:

• Aztekium valdezii is considered the rarest species within the already rare genus Aztekium. 
• It is important to purchase plants from reputable sources to avoid contributing to illegal trafficking and to support conservation efforts.