Sulcorebutia zavaletae is an attractive miniature cactus native to the high-altitude regions of Bolivia, belonging to a fascinating group of Andean cacti renowned for their compact growth, intricate spination and spectacular flowers.
The species develops small, rounded to somewhat flattened bodies divided into numerous tubercles, with closely spaced areoles carrying fine spines. Established plants can produce offsets and gradually develop into attractive multi-headed clusters while retaining the compact proportions characteristic of Sulcorebutia.
Its flowers are a particular highlight, opening in rich magenta-red shades with noticeably paler inner petals. The blooms are remarkably large in comparison with the size of the plant and emerge from around the sides of the body, creating a vivid display against the textured epidermis and spines.
In the wild, S. zavaletae occurs in rugged Andean landscapes where individual cactus populations can be separated by mountains and valleys. This geographic isolation is one reason Sulcorebutia is such an interesting and variable group, with different populations exhibiting variations in body form, spination and flower colour.
A characterful Bolivian miniature, Sulcorebutia zavaletae combines compact growth and detailed spination with exceptionally colourful magenta-red blooms.
Caution: Toxic if eaten.