Uebelmannia pectinifera

Frost Tolerance: Keep above 40°F (4°C) in winter, avoid any frost

Heat Tolerance: Keep cool in summer

Sun Exposure: Full sun, possibly afternoon shade in summer in very hot climates

Origin: Brazil (mountain of Minas Gerais)

Growth Habits: Solitary cactus, 4 to 6 inches wide (10-15 cm), 20 inches tall (50 cm); 15 to 18 prominent ribs; close set areoles; 1 to 4 central spines, up to 0.6 inch long (1.5 cm), in the classical look, the spines are straight and give a comb-like effect.

Watering Needs: Regular water. Root prone if kept cold in winter, sometimes grafted to eliminate this problem. Enjoys humid air.

Propagation: Seeds

Uebelmannia pectinifera at Mile's to Go in late February

The species pectinifera comes from the Latin for "bearing combs".

Blooming Habits:
The diurnal yellow flowers come sporadically. They are 0.6 inch long (15 mm), 0.5 inch in diameter (12 mm).