Carnelian — Gymnocalycium mihanovichii Clone Profile
Carnelian pairs fiery tricolor variegation with unusually long, assertive spines for a sharper, more armored take on Gymnocalycium mihanovichii.
Carnelian stands out immediately for its hot, mineral-rich palette: bands and patches of orange-yellow and coral red wash over a dark green body, giving the plant a molten, carnelian-like glow. The ribs are strongly sculpted into tall, knuckled, almost faceted protrusions, so the color breaks across the body in bold planes rather than flat stripes. That combination gives the clone a dramatic, almost carved look from every angle. What pushes Carnelian beyond ordinary variegated mihanovichii is its armament. This clone is noted for very long and strong spikes, and the photos fully support that impression: pale, extended spines radiate well beyond the body, adding a wild, tensile framework over the saturated skin. The result is a memorable contrast between jewel-toned flesh and stark, elongated spination. Sourced from Thailand and shown here on its own roots, Carnelian has the kind of silhouette that reads instantly in a collection tray.
Clone Characteristics
- Body color: Dark green with orange-yellow and coral to red variegated areas.
- Variegation: Yes
- Variegation pattern: Irregular multicolored variegation in orange-yellow and coral-red over green, appearing as broad patches and banded zones across the ribs.
- Ribs: Strongly contoured ribs with pronounced, knuckled, angular protrusions.
- Spines: Very long, strong, pale spines with darker tips; prominently extended beyond the body.
- Growth form: Solitary globose to short barrel form.
- Distinctive traits: Very long and strong spikes paired with vivid tricolor variegation and heavily sculpted ribs.
- Root status: own_root
Origin & Provenance
- Source country: Thailand
Clone Gallery
