Mariposa Cactus, Lloyd's Mariposa Cactus

Mariposa Cactus, Lloyd's Mariposa Cactus Sclerocactus mariposensis is Endemic to Texas and is classified as an Endangered species.

The egg-shaped stems of the Mariposa cactus are commonly about the size of a golf ball, but may grow to about 3.5" tall and up to 2" in d...Read Moreiameter.
The flowers are about 1" in diameter and bloom in Feb and March. The petals are pink to white with distinct greenish to reddish purple midribs. The stigmas are green. The yellowish globose fruits are about 1/2"in diameter.
The Mariposa cactus occurs on limestone hills below 3500' elevation, primarily in the eastern sections of Big Bend National Park. It was named for the Mariposa Mine at Terlingua, Texas west of the park.