Copiapoa vallenarensis (VALLENAR form) J676

Copiapoa vallenarensis (Vallenar form) is a cactus native to the Vallenar region in northern Chile. This small to medium-sized cactus typically forms globular to slightly cylindrical stems, which can grow either solitary or in small clusters. The stems are dark green to bluish-green with a somewhat glaucous coating and have well-defined ribs adorned with rounded tubercles. The areoles are spaced along the ribs, bearing short, stout spines that are black to dark brown. During the blooming season, it produces small, bright yellow flowers that emerge from the crown of the stems. This cactus thrives in well-draining, sandy or rocky soils and prefers full sun to partial shade, mirroring its natural arid habitat.