Thelocactus bicolor, commonly known as Glory Of Texas, is an evergreen succulent native to the Chihuahuan Desert, specifically found on basalt soils, rocky outcrops, and hills in Texas and northeastern Mexico. It typically grows up to 50 cm (20 in) tall and is characterized by its spiny, ribbed, succulent stems that form a spherical to cylindrical shape. The large, daisy-like flowers, which can reach up to 8 cm (3.1 in) in diameter, are particularly showy, with purplish-pink petals that fade to white towards their edges. The inner petal tips create a striking circle of red around a prominent yellow center, and these flowers bloom in the summer months, adding a vibrant splash of color to the landscape.

The Glory Of Texas is valued for its ornamental flowers and its ability to thrive in hot, arid conditions, making it a popular choice for rock gardens, desert landscaping, and as a potted specimen in areas with cold winters. It requires a warm, dry, sunny spot and should be planted in sharply-drained specialist cactus compost to mimic its natural habitat. This cactus has earned the Royal Horticultural Society’s Award of Garden Merit, highlighting its desirability for cultivation. It is best suited to full sun exposure and can tolerate very low to medium water levels, requiring fast-draining soils to prevent root rot. While generally low-maintenance, it is susceptible to mealybugs and overwatering can lead to fungal diseases.CC BY-SA 4.0