The name of this genus comes from the Greek “thelè” which means nipple and refers to the tubercles. Thelocactus plants can be globose or cylindrical and are found in Mexico and in Texas. Several species are often topped with stout spines. These cacti are not particularly difficult to grow and may flower during the entire summer. They prefer a calcareous and mineral soil. The wide range of colours that characterises both their flowers ad spines make these plants really interesting. Propagation occurs nearly always from seeds.
