Nellie Cory Cactus
A Small Plant with a Small Population
What's with the Nellie Cory Cactus?
The Nellie's Cory cactus is a tiny cactus with rounded, single stems to 1 inch tall. It is crowded with thick, white spines and produces pink flowers.
Life History
This tiny cactus with its thick whitish spines and attractive pink flowers (larger than the plant itself) is highly prized among collectors. It blooms primarily in May, but the blooming period lasts from March - June. Afterwards, it produces fruit that ripens from June - October. Nellie's cory cactus was once found on highway right- of-ways, but was extirpated due to intense collecting pressure.
Nellie Cory Cactus Location
This species is now known only from three sites, all in Brewster County,Texas.
Habitat
Nellie's cory cactus grows on Caballos Novaculite rock outcrops (a quartz-like material) in sparsely vegetated areas of the Chihuahuan Desert.
Cactus Size
The Nellie Cory Cactus is about as big around as a dime.
Cactus Height
The Nellie Cory Cactus is only about 2in tall when the flower has bloomed.
Cactus Growth
The Nellie Cory Cactus usually grows in small patches.