Pincushion Cactus
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As the picture above shows, they are commonly characterized as small round plants with small spines, looking as if someone were sticking pins in a cushion.
They are also an adaptable group, living in a variety of habitats. Sometimes general group adaptability turns disadvantageous to specific species. The Cochise Pincushion Cactus, for example, only lives in Sonoran Desert habitat dominated by limestone. The species was listed at a threatened species in Arizona in 1986. Extended drought conditions in their habitat pose problems for long term species survival.
The fishhook cactus listed in the box, is a more common species, found in California and Arizona.
© 2004 Patricia A. Michaels.