Paper-Spined Cactus, Gramma Grass Cactus

Scientific Name: Sclerocactus papyracanthus (Engelm.) N.P.Taylor
Synonym: Echinocactus papyracanthus, Mammillaria papyracantha, Pediocactus papyracanthus, Toumeya papyracantha
Family: Cactaceae

Origin: Northeastern Arizona, western New Mexico

Growth Habits: Generally solitary, or slowly branching, dark green cylindrical stem; tubercles up to 0.2 inch tall (5 mm); 1 to 4 centrals, flattened, paper-like, up to 0.25 inch wide (6 mm) at the base, the ones at the apex are generally erect, up to 1.2 inches long (3 cm); 6 to 9 radials.

This cactus grows in open grasslands, associated with gramma grass and is seldom seen, thanks to its excellent camouflage.

Blooming Habits:
Whitish bell-shaped flowers, 0.8 to 1 inch long and wide (2-2.5 cm). The fruits are spherical, 0.5 to 0.8 inch long (12-20 mm), splitting when ripe.