Lobivia in Bloom: Behind the Scenes at Spine City
This isn’t a guide — it’s a glimpse.
Lobivia hybrids have been a major focus at Spine City for years. Where others looked past them, we dug in deeper — chasing colour, form, and floral impact.
Many of our lines trace back to a carefully selected genetic bank of species, forming the foundation for the work we do now.
Every season pushes things further.
What you’re seeing here is just the tip of the iceberg: some lines already released, others still under wraps.
A little preview of what’s to come...
Lobivia cv. ‘Princess Peach’
One of our earlier hybrids, grown from seed produced at Spine City in 2018. Out of several hundred seedlings, this was one of the few that made the cut.
Released in small numbers, with a few more likely next season. We prefer to keep things limited so each plant feels special.
20.228 – Lobivia wrightiana v. winteriana WR1061
A striking form of a pure species, currently being explored for its hybrid potential.
This plant will not be released — it’s part of our long-term breeding work, with results expected over the next 2–5 years.
21.527.5
Grown from European seed and currently in production at Spine City.
We’re aiming for a first release in 2025 or 2026.
19.205 – Lobivia drijveriana R17
A pure species currently being explored for hybrid potential. Affectionately known here as “the best one” — the flower colour and contrast speak for themselves.
We expect to see first results within the next 1–3 years.
Lobivia cv. Firefly
Previously released in limited numbers. This one will return next season, grown from the same 2018 batch as ‘Princess Peach’.
21.527.15
Some flowers are good. Some are great.
And then there’s this.
Grown from European hybrid seed, this plant exploded into bloom and broke the internet — or at least our corner of it. When the first image went live, seasoned collectors were messaging us in all caps. One grower put it perfectly: “PROPAGATE THIS PLANT NOW.”
Unreal saturation, flawless form, and a presence you don’t forget. This one’s not just a keeper — it’s a future cornerstone.
Lobivia caineana
A true species — and one of the few Lobivia that’s genuinely tricky to grow. Brutal spines, a body that leans more Tricho than typical Lobivia and flowers that seem too soft for a plant this fierce.
The contrast is what makes it unforgettable.
Lobivia winteriana
One of our top-performing parent plants — consistent, reliable, and always putting on a show. We work with several forms of winteriana which are used extensively in our hybrid programs.
These have been hugely popular and you can expect to see them featured in our lines for many seasons to come.
LV.2
This plant predates Spine City — one of the hybrids that first sparked the idea. It’s never been released and never will be. A personal plant, held close, but one that continues to play a role in our hybrid programs behind the scenes.
21.527.29
Another standout from European hybrid seed. This one went straight into production and is scheduled for a limited release in 2025/2026.
The intensity of colour and sheer size of the bloom — all on such a compact plant — make it something truly special.
21.527.9
Those with a keen eye will spot what we see: potential!
Striking in its own right, but more importantly, it’s a foundation worth building on. How it performs in the next generations is up to the cactus gods — but we’re giving it a red hot crack.
The Long Game
When I look over these plants, I wonder — what will come next?
Many of them won’t make the cut, and that’s the hardest part of raising hybrids. But it’s also what makes the work worthwhile. It’s through this process of careful selection, season after season that Spine City is able to offer the best Lobivia hybrids in the country.
We’re not slowing down. Far from it — we’re just getting started.
Cactus, and especially hybrid cactus is long game. There are a few shortcuts, sure — but mostly, it’s time, patience, ruthless selection… and the thrill of the chase...
The search for the next superstar flower.
Coming Soon — Part 2
In Part 2, we’ll be diving headfirst into peak season: the latest standouts, the unexpected fails, and a closer look at what’s hitting the release bench next.
The season is fast approaching — and before we know it, Spine City will be in full bloom.
Can’t get enough Lobivia?
Check out our other blog posts:
→ How to Choose Rare Cactus Species for Your Collection
→ The 300 Collection
Or just want to bring these incredible plants home and experience the magic for yourself?
→ Browse available Lobivia hybrids here
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