Uebelmannia

It is a small genus of highly prized cacti endemic to the rocky savannas of Minas Gerais, Brazil. The genus was named after Swiss cactus specialist Werner J. Uebelmann. These plants are famous for their unusual waxy or granular epidermis, sharply defined ribs, and distinctive comb-like spines. Uebelmannia species are slow growing, habitat-specific, and protected in the wild due to historic over-collection.

They typically have globose to short-cylindrical stems, narrow ribs, and produce small yellow funnel-shaped flowers near the apex. Because of their beauty and difficulty in cultivation, they are considered among the most desirable cacti for serious collectors.

Accepted Uebelmannia Species

• Uebelmannia buiningii — a rare species with dark epidermis and fine spination, endemic to Minas Gerais.
• Uebelmannia gummifera — known for its sticky epidermis and variable spination; includes subspecies such as subsp. meninensis.
• Uebelmannia pectinifera — the most famous species, with comb-like spines and several recognized forms.
• Uebelmannia nuda — a more recently accepted species with reduced spination and smooth body appearance.

Commonly Referenced Subspecies and Forms

• Uebelmannia pectinifera subsp. pectinifera
• Uebelmannia pectinifera subsp. flavispina — yellow spines
• Uebelmannia pectinifera subsp. horrida — heavier, rough spination
• Uebelmannia pectinifera subsp. eriocactoides
• Uebelmannia gummifera subsp. meninensis

Taxonomy Notes

For many years only three species were widely recognized in the genus. Recent botanical treatments and field studies in Brazil have refined the taxonomy, leading to the acceptance of Uebelmannia nuda as a distinct species and ongoing discussion about additional local forms that may represent future taxa.

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