Matucana hoxeyi is a species of cactus in the genus Matucana, native to Peru.[1]

Matucana hoxeyi
Scientific classification Edit this classification
Kingdom: Plantae
Clade: Tracheophytes
Clade: Angiosperms
Clade: Eudicots
Order: Caryophyllales
Family: Cactaceae
Subfamily: Cactoideae
Genus: Matucana
Species:
M. hoxeyi
Binomial name
Matucana hoxeyi
(G.J.Charles) G.J.Charles
Synonyms
  • Matucana paucicostata subsp. hoxeyi G.J.Charles 2010

Description edit

Matucana hoxeyi is identified by its pale yellow-green stems, glaucous, with a diameter of 12cm and reaching heights of up to 30cm. The plant typically grows either as a single specimen or in clusters. Its spines, initially golden but transitioning to grey, are straight to slightly curved. The plant features up to 10 radial spines, measuring up to 30mm in length, and a central spine that can reach 40mm. The flowers of Matucana hoxeyi measure approximately 65mm in length and red-orange with a subtle hint of violet. The seeds are dark brown and measure 2.2 x 2.0mm.[2]

Distribution edit

This species is found in the valley of the Río Rupac, Peru at elevations of 1800 to 2350 meters. Plants are found growing around Matucana haynii subsp. myriacantha.

Taxonomy edit

The plant was first discovered by cactus collector Paul Hoxey in December 2001. The plant was later described in 2010 by Graham Charles in Quepo as Matucana paucicostata subsp. hoxeyi[3]

References edit

  1. ^ "Matucana hoxeyi (G.J.Charles) G.J.Charles". Plants of the World Online. Retrieved 2023-12-17.
  2. ^ "Cactus Explorers Journal Number 7 February 2013" (PDF). Retrieved 2023-12-17.
  3. ^ "Cactus Explorers Journal Number 1 August 2011". Retrieved 2023-12-17.

External links edit