Maihueniopsis hickenii

Maihueniopsis hickenii

Overview\n Maihueniopsis hickenii is a cushion forming, low growing succulent shrub belonging to the Cactaceae family, highly adapted to the harsh conditions of Patagonia . It is known for its remarkable cold tolerance and compact growth habit.\n\n Classification and naming\nThe species belongs to the genus Maihueniopsis . The specific epithet \"hickenii\" honors the prominent Argentine botanist Cristóbal María Hicken. It has historically been classified under Opuntia due to its segmented growth, but phylogenetic studies place it firmly within Maihueniopsis .\n\n Distribution and habitat\nThis species is native to southern Argentina, particularly in the Patagonian provinces of Santa Cruz, Chubut, and Río Negro . It thrives in arid, wind swept gravelly plains and rocky slopes at moderate to high elevations, enduring extreme temperature fluctuations.\n\n Appearance\nIt forms dense, flat cushions composed of small, egg shaped to cylindrical segments. The segments are dull greyish green, bearing prominent areoles with sturdy, yellowish brown, flattened spines. In late spring or summer, it produces beautiful, bright yellow cup shaped flowers at the branch tips.\n\n Cultivation and care\nIn cultivation, Maihueniopsis hickenii requires full sun and exceptionally well drained, mineral rich soil . Given its Patagonian origin, it is extremely cold hardy, tolerating temperatures down to 15°C, provided the substrate is kept entirely dry during the winter resting period. Watering should be deep but infrequent in summer.\n\n Common cultivation mistakes\nThe most common pitfall is overwatering, especially during winter. A combination of cold temperatures and wet soil quickly leads to root and stem rot. Insufficient sunlight will cause weak, elongated growth.\n\n References\n Plants of the World Online (POWO). \"Maihueniopsis hickenii\". Kew Science.\n Anderson, E. F. (2001). \"The Cactus Family\". Timber Press.