Ferocactus macrodiscus

Native to Mexico, this succulent cactus grows in dry grassland and dry oak woodland. Young plants are rounded, becoming broad and flattened with age, with prominent ribs carrying stout spines. During prolonged drought, the body can shrink toward the ground, drawing on stored reserves in its thick taproot. Flowers develop near the crown and are followed by rounded, reddish fruits. It is vulnerable in the wild, where grassland and oak woodland habitats are being converted to farmland and cattle pasture. Photographed in Florida.