This form of the ever-popular “crown of thorns” makes an upright shrub to about 1 m tall. It is a spectacular sight in flower and rivals some of the “improved” Thai hybrids with its large clusters of bright pink cyathia. At the onset of winter dormancy the leaves provide some fall color as they blush red before going deciduous. HBG 97522, plants from Röösli & Hoffmann 506, seeds collected Nov. 17, 2006, at Mahatsingo, Madagascar. $8.
Published in the Cactus and Succulent Journal, Vol. 80 (2), March - April, 2008