Colorado Wild Plants and Fungi
by DaySounds © 2017




Western Ball Cactus (Pediocactus simpsonii, var. minor)

Its fruits are edible. It can provide water; however, since it is so small, the amount
will be minimal.

Similar species and how to differentiate them:
The regular Pediocactus simpsonii--not this variety--"is covered with interlaced
spines that completely hide the tubercles. The fragrant flowers range from yellowish
white to apricot and bright pink.... Corypantha vivipara has grooved tubercles on upper
side....Neobesseya missouriensis (Sweet)* has yellow flowers with pink or brown
central stripe on petals and sepals." Quote from Colorado Cacti, by C.H. Boissevain &
C. Davidson; Pasadena Abbey Garden Press, 1940; Passadena, CA).

*.- Now Escobaria missouriensis (Sweet)/Mammillaria roseiflora
                                     

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