Tephrocactus articulatus
Light: Full sun to light shade; in Phoenix, provide afternoon shade during extreme summer heat and acclimate gradually to direct sun.
Water: Low water; water thoroughly only after soil dries completely. Reduce watering greatly in winter and during periods of heat-related growth slowdown.
Soil: Excellent drainage is essential; use a coarse, mineral-rich cactus mix with pumice, gravel, or grit. Avoid moisture-retentive soil.
Mature size: Typically 1–2 feet tall and wide, forming an irregular clump.
Bloom: Occasional late-spring to summer flowers on mature plants; flowering can be infrequent in cultivation.
Evergreen / deciduous: Evergreen succulent stems; tiny temporary leaves drop soon after new growth develops.
Growth rate: Slow.