I was given this amazing plant five or more years ago by David Salman: I'm not entirely convinced it doesn't represent a hybrid with Pediocactus simpsonii. Once it's finished blooming, it's going into a trough with another (much paler) P. despainii. I agree with John Weiser that it is beyond stupid that we cannot import these from Canada.
By the way, this just sits outside all winter in its dinky pot: does just fine through -20F we had this year!
Comments
Re: Pediocactus despainii
Sorry I didn't respond earlier to this: yes, it is blooming on a pup. I have a few different Pedios that are pupping, which is rather unusual for the genus, I understand. There are several areas in Colorado where they do this regularly...one place I have not been to but apparently every plant is a foot or more across with dozens of heads.
Of course, Pediocactus robustior does this all the tume in Washington State, making huge masses...
Re: Pediocactus despainii
Sorry I didn't respond earlier to this: yes, it is blooming on a pup. I have a few different Pedios that are pupping, which is rather unusual for the genus, I understand. There are several areas in Colorado where they do this regularly...one place I have not been to but apparently every plant is a foot or more across with dozens of heads.
Of course, Pediocactus robustior does this all the tume in Washington State, making huge masses...
My understanding (from poring over catalogues ;D ) is that there are numerous offsetting and non-offsetting forms, even of the same species, as there are with Escobaria vivipara and missouriensis, for example..
PK
Great plant whether it's,a hybrid or not. Very rich pink and pushing a lot of blossoms.
Is it growing a side shoot? I have never seen a Pedio bloom from any place other than the apical areoles.