Pelecyphora aselliformis, also known as Linglong Ball, belongs to the genus Axobulum, an endangered species. At present, there are only two varieties: Linglong Pill and Silver Peony Ball Flower.
Distribution: The mountainous area of northern Mexico at an altitude of 1800 meters, with only a little rain in summer and completely dry in winter.
Morphology: Small cylindrical cactus species, plant gray-green, combing to form rows of thorns (also known as verrucous processes), gray, with tuberous roots, with a little white hair before the thorns stand. The flowering period is summer, the flowers are pink or purple, it is difficult to bloom due to insufficient light, and delicate pills are easy to grow in groups.
Growth: Linglong Pill is easy to cultivate, but it grows slowly, and the growth rate can be improved by grafting. Linglong Pill likes an environment with good drainage and plenty of sunshine (sufficient illumination is needed, watering is controlled, and plants are kept compact and not excessively elongated). It is native to shrubs, so it is afraid of sun exposure and suitable for shade tolerance. Summer needs shading, ventilation and heat dissipation. In winter, it should be placed indoors to control water and improve its cold resistance. Linglong pill grows slowly and slender at seedling stage, and the top sphere expands continuously after growing up, so the adult plants are often stick-shaped.
Propagation: you can sow and propagate, the sowing temperature should be above 30 degrees Celsius, it takes 5-7 years from sowing to growth, and you need very careful watering. You can also carry out cutting propagation of lateral buds to ensure that the wound is completely healed before cutting.