This genus is endemic to Mexico and to Texas, in the United States. All species of Ariocarpus are included in CITES Appendix 1, as they are threatened with extinction due to both illegal collection and to the anthropization of entire areas where some colonies live. Fortunately, the reproductive ecology of this genus has been studied in detail in recent years, which made it possible to reproduce mature plants from seeds, but uncontrolled urban development continues to be a problem. Plants of Ariocarpus retusus have spines only when young, except for some plants of Ariocarpus furfuraceus “rostratus”, which have tiny spines on the upper side of the tubercle, and for Ariocarpus agavoides subs. sanluisensis.
Contrary to popular belief, these plants are not difficult to grow, but there are some basic requirements to meet: well-drained calcareous and mineral soil, spring/summer watering, keep it dry in winter, exposed to temperature and water stress. Interesting facts: around 1840, some plants of Ariocarpus kotschoubeyanus were shipped to Europe, one of which was sold for a whopping $ 200, much more than its equivalent in gold.
