Copiapoa bridgesii, photo by Daiv Freeman at CactiGuide, click photo for original CactiGuide Web page
Copiapoa comprises a genus of 2 dozen (or perhaps 30) species of cacti from central and northern coastal Chile. Presumably, in such places, their water is from coastal fog or winter rains (or both).
The genus was originally described as “Echinocactus,” but Copiapoa was proposed in the 1920s. Copiapoa generally have yellow flowers and may be spiny, or not spiny. They have much variation within the genus.
The Copiapoa Handbook describes the genus in detail, providing maps and cultural information. I understand the book is sold out, but you might be able to find copies in bookstores or on Ebay. You can learn more about Copiapoa here, and here.
written by: jshaw at opuntiads.com
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