The Cactus Conservation Institute (CCI) announces completion of the recovery of nearly 500 acres for the protection of the Zapata bladderpod (Physaria thamnophila = Lesquerella thamnophila) and star cactus (Astrophytum asterias). The recovery was completed in coordination with a regional conservation entity. The Zapata bladderpod is a rare flowering plant that is a part of the mustard family. The star cactus, known also as the sea urchin cactus, is one of the most at-risk cacti in the United States and now resides within a radius of ten square miles. Both species are threatened due to loss of habitat. The conservation area that has been set-aside will be used to protect these two flora species as well as the desert tortoise (Gopherus berlandieri) and other at-risk fauna.

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In March of 2018, we were fortunate to have been permitted to see the rare and endangered Zapata bladderpod in habitat.  Its habitat is small but federally protected and off-limits to casual visitors. Despite that level of protection, it is threatened by the building of a wall between the US and Mexico as said wall has to be built far enough from the river so as to be on stable ground.

This was formerly known as Lesquerella thamnophila Rollins & E.A. Shaw.

Physaria thamnophila

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