The name of this genus is derived from the Greek words “pelekys” (axe) and “phoros” (bearing) referring to the appearance of the tubercles of the originally known species, Pelecyphora aselliformis, also known as “peyotillo”. Plants of this genus grow low in the soil in their habitat of Northern-Central Mexico and live at high altitudes above 1,800 metres) in flat and hilly areas, on dark and nutrient-rich and lime-rich soils. Both species (considering Encephalocarpus stroboliformis as included in the same genus) are slow-growing and tuberculate, but easily distinguished from each other, as Pelecyphora aselliformis has oval-shaped tubercles topped with strongly pectinate spines. Flowers are dark pink and come from the apex, while fruits are small berries with no spines and indehiscent. Because of this, the seeds can be more difficult to collect than other cacti. When a new motorway was built north of the city of San Luis Potosi that threatened a population of Pelecyphora aselliformis, over 1,200 plants were moved to a botanical garden that is home to native flora including endangered species. To grow Pelecyphora, you must be patient and provide a mineral soil and full sun exposure. The genus is included in Cites Appendix I.
