The lava cactus (Brachycereus nesioticus) is a species of cactus and the sole species of the genus Brachycereus. The plant, known uniquely from Bartolomé Island of the Galapagos, is a colonizer of lava fields, hence its common name.

Physical Features

The plant has soft furry spines and grows in clumps to a height of about two feet (60 cm). New Growth is yellow, turning to brown, which darkens to gray with age. The creamy white flowers are visible in the early morning hours only, and have normally faded by 8 in the morning.

Where to purchase

Specimens are available for sale from plant suppliers.

References

• Listed as Vulnerable (VU D2 v2.3)

External links

• Galapagos Cactus (Galapagosonline)
• Photos
• More photos