Echinocactus horizonthalonius var. nicholii
Arizona Turk's Head, Nichol's Turk's Head Cactus
Nichol's
Turks Head Cactus is an isolated Southern Arizona population that differs
from the common variety
in
its disjunct and highly restricted range, large size and robust spines,
elongated shape (not flattened at maturity),
and
habit of producing offsets or vegetative buds (small plants growing at
the base of an old one).
The
common variety found in Texas and Mexico (but not Arizona) is
Echinocactus
horizonthalonius var. horizonthalonius.
Common
names: Blue Barrel, Devil's Head, Horse Crippler
It
is smaller, round or slightly flattened in shape, and has more delicate
spines. It grows singly and does not produce buds.
Nichol's
Turks Head is unique and unmistakable within its range. Other BARREL
CACTI that grow with it
are
dark green, much larger, have more than 8 ribs, have red and/or yellow
spines, and have yellow, orange, or red flowers.
Federal
Threatened and Endangered Species status:
E.
h. var. nicholii is listed as endangered.
THREATS:
Primarily
collection and offroad vehicle use; also grazing and (potentially)
development.
