Copiapoa humilis subsp. tenuissima

Endemic to the Antofagasta region of northern Chile, this small, slow-growing cactus grows close to the ground among stones in the coastal desert. Its rounded, ribbed stems can branch into low clumps, with a large underground root storing reserves. Fragrant yellow flowers develop near the top of the stems, followed by rounded fruits containing black seeds. The subspecies has a very restricted range and is rare in the wild. Drought and illegal collecting for the cactus trade threaten its remaining populations. Photographed in Peru.