This genus of small cactus has rounded trunks that are covered in spirally arranged flattened tubercles. The elliptical areoles are located towards the top and have minute spines and the reddish-violet bell-shaped flowers appear in summer.

Hardiness zones 9 to 11

Pelecyphora species are naturally found in South America growing in very well drained, gritty light soils in an open sunny position and is drought tolerant but frost tender. 

The Hatchet Cactus are grown for their flowers and rounded habit. They are planted in small or arid gardens and used in sunny rockeries as a specimen. They are also commonly grown as a potted specimen in collections or used as a house plant. In cold regions they are grown under glass and establish in 4-6 years and are long lived.  They are slow growing and should be kept dry during winter. ID 708 

Pelecyphora (pel-e-see-FOR-ah) species

Cactaceae (kak-TAY-see-ee)