Wednesday, March 4, 2009

Ferocactus Histrix


San Luis Potosi is noted for having one of the largest varieties of cacti in the world. When you first see one while hiking or driving on the highways you think they all very similar until you start taking interest in them and then realize that the difference and variety of species is immense. Some are very small and just barely visible because just the top parts show up above the soil, others are very tall and thin, while others like this particular one are at least 3ft. high and about 2 ft. in its circumference. One this big is usually close to a century old. They usually grow on the sides of mountains but will also be found on flatter land. One thing that I have noticed is that if you find one, you will probably find at least a dozen several yards apart in the same area and then if you walk a bit more, you will find a completely different species close by.


The one in this picture is a few yard from our ranch home and it will be in full bloom in about a week. All of those buds will turn into gorgeous bright yellow flowers and after they dry and fall off, the fruit will be left on the cactus. It is a small elongated fruit about the size of a fig in colors ranging from burnt orange to deep red. They have a sweet sour taste to them and many people love to enjoy the savor while drinking tequila.

7 comments:

Billie Crain said...

this photo is beautiful, Mary! your description is interesting, too. i hope you'll snap a shot when this one blooms. i'd love to see it.:)

Anita said...

I really got into cactuses a while ago - they are so many different shapes and sizes. Great photo!

Shayla said...

Quite spectacular! Hope you'll get a chance to photograph the flowers ;) I've never seen this variety before. In fact, I didn't even know there was cacti that bore fruit!

Leslie Avon Miller said...

How great to see the spring bloom in a cactus! Something I would never see here near the rain forest! Thanks Mary.

Mary said...

Glad you liked the piture Billie, I know your love for gardening. I will take a pictur of it in full bloom.

Anita, I too love Cacti and had a big collection at the other ranch but in spite of their being pretty hardy they do need attention so I only have a few now.

Shayla yes, I think most have fruit, some edible and some not. I will take a picture with the ripened fruit and the fullbloom of the flowers.

Leslie, funny how nature makes up for those things we don't have like no bright colors in the desert, until these flowers show off their splendid blooms. I hope to show other species soon.

~Babs said...

I've always been fascinated with cactus, and this one is just fabulous!
I usually keep a small one in my kitchen,,,requiring little care, I usually can keep it alive for a while. I kill everything else.
Thanks Mary!

Unknown said...

Gorgeous image!

Cactii are fascinating and, like snowflakes, every one seems unique.

Great post!