Loxanthocereus hoxeyi
Loxanthocereus hoxeyi
Loxanthocereus hoxeyi
Loxanthocereus hoxeyi (G.J.Charles) Lodé is treated as an accepted taxon in Plants of the World Online.1
The current source-backed classification places it in Cactaceae within Loxanthocereus.12
Its recorded native range/source remark is WESTERNSOUTHAMERICA, PEROO, PER, SOUTHERNAMERICA; Peru.1
POWO records the plant context as succulent subshrub, desert or dry shrubland.1
This is a source-populated draft intended for later Kaktus Doktoru editorial rewriting; care advice and morphology should be reviewed before publication.
References
- Plants of the World Online. "Loxanthocereus hoxeyi (G.J.Charles) Lodé". Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew. Accessed: 2026-06-10. https://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:77163790-1 ↩
- GBIF Secretariat. "Loxanthocereus hoxeyi". GBIF Backbone Taxonomy. Accessed: 2026-06-10. https://www.gbif.org/species/11008012 ↩
Plants In This Group
Loxanthocereus hoxeyi
Loxanthocereus hoxeyi
Loxanthocereus hoxeyi is an endemic cactus species native to the arid valleys of Peru, characterized by its subshrubby, clustering growth habit and vibrant tubular flowers 1.
Taxonomy and Naming
The species was named in honor of the British cactus enthusiast and explorer Paul Hoxey, who made significant contributions to the study of Andean cacti 2. It belongs to the genus Loxanthocereus, which is highly valued for its specialized floral ecology.
Natural Distribution and Habitat
Endemic to western South America, specifically Peru, this species thrives in dry shrublands and rocky desert environments 3. It is found clinging to steep canyon walls and gravelly slopes where drainage is instantaneous.
Appearance
The stems are slender, cylindrical, light green, and densely covered with fine needle-like spines. The striking flowers are asymmetrical, tubular, and bright red to orange, adapted for hummingbird pollination.
Care in Cultivation
It requires a mineral-rich, porous soil medium and excellent air circulation. Water thoroughly in summer only after the substrate has dried out completely, and keep virtually dry in winter.
Common Cultivation Mistakes
Overwatering during the winter rest period and using heavy, organic peat-rich soils are the main causes of root rot. Lack of sufficient light leads to weak, etiolated growth.