SafePlants

Pima Pineapple Cactus: A Botanical Overview

The Pima pineapple cactus, scientifically known as Coryphantha scheeri var. robustispina, is a fascinating plant with an intriguing history and unique characteristics. This content explores its taxonomy, distribution, ecological role, and other interesting facts.

Nomenclature and Taxonomy

• Scientific Name: Coryphantha scheeri var. robustispina
• Common Names: Pima Pineapple Cactus, Mojave Pineapple Cactus, Redspine Pineapple Cactus, Sonora Pineapple Cactus, Needle-spine Pineapple Cactus, Pineapple Cactus
• Synonyms: Coryphantha robustispina, Coryphantha sulcata
• Family: Cactaceae (Cactus family)

Considerations for Pets

• The plant has spines arranged in clusters.

Morphology and Growth Habits

• The Pima pineapple cactus is described as a round plant.
• It typically grows to a height of 3 to 18 inches and a width of 3 to 7 inches.
• One reference mentions Coryphantha sulcata growing to form small mounds of rounded stems covered in tight white spines.

Distribution and Habitat

• This cactus is distributed in Chihuahua and Sonora in Mexico, and in the United States in Arizona, New Mexico, and Texas.
• It is found in the Arizona uplands.

Ecological Role

• The Pima pineapple cactus is listed as a federally threatened and endangered species.
• Habitat loss is a threat to the species.

Interactions with Other Organisms

• The plant relies on monsoon season for the yellow flowers to bloom.
• Pollination is a key factor for the species, as evidenced by research into whether pollen flow limits its abundance.

Quirky Facts

• The name "pineapple cactus" stems from its appearance.
• Some people combine cactus with fruits and vegetables like cucumber, celery, pineapple, and orange to make juice.

Further Information

• U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS)
• Buenos Aires National Wildlife Refuge
• Royal Botanic Gardens, Sydney