Matucana paucicostata
Matucana paucicostata
Matucana paucicostata is a flowering plant in the genus Matucana from the cactus family ( Cactaceae ). The specific epithet paucicostata means (Latin paucicostatus ) little ripped '.
Description
Matucana paucicostata usually grows with branched from the base spherical to short cylindrical, dark gray-green stems and reaches diameters of 4-7 cm plant height 7-15 inches. It is formed a short taproot. There are seven to eleven broad, straight fin present, which are divided into conical cusps. The curved, somewhat flexible, reddish brown spines become gray with age. The single central spine - which can also be missing - is 0.5 to 3 inches long up to 3 inches, which are four to eight spines.
The slightly curved, crimson flowers are up to 6 inches long and have a diameter of 3 centimeters. The green fruit reach a diameter of 11 mm.
Systematics and distribution
Matucana paucicostata is common in the Peruvian region of Ancash in the valleys of the Río Puchca, Río Mosna, Río Río Marañón Huari and at altitudes from 1800 to 2800 meters.
The first description was in 1963 by Friedrich Ritter. Synonyms are Submatucana paucicostata ( F.Ritter ) Backeb. (1963) and Borzicactus paucicostatus ( F.Ritter ) Donald (1971).