Burgundy Star Cactus

This short cactus grows up to 10 feet (3.0 meters) tall. It splits partway up the body to form 4 thin stems. Each stem is burgundy, and is dotted with small white spines. The round body is burgundy, and is covered in dozens of rigid brilliant green spines.

It is quick growing, taking 2 months to reach maturity. Once mature, a handful of flowers, with petals that are violet on the underside and gold on the top, grow at the top, reappearing once every 4 years. The flower head is shaped like a star with 36 raised, round-tipped petals. It has a delicate scent that smells like chocolate.

The cactus's skin is tough, the olive flesh is waxy, and the grey sap is thin.