Ariocarpus fissuratus seeds

Ariocarpus fissuratus

This plant has a way of hiding right in front of you. I’ve walked past it more than once without even noticing—it blends in so well with the rocky ground. But when it blooms, it’s like the desert throws a little surprise party. Collecting seeds isn’t easy; you have to gently dig through the fuzzy center, and it takes a lot of care not to hurt the plant. Every seed feels kind of special because of that.

• Native to: Southwestern Texas and northern Mexico

• Growth habit: Very slow-growing cactus that stays low and flat against the soil. Its textured, rock-like surface helps it blend into its surroundings, with flowers popping up from a wooly center.