With its deep black body densely covered in thick, twisting brown spines, this Gymnocalycium specimen truly exudes a commanding presence. True to its name, “Matenryu” (Demon Sky Dragon), its appearance conjures up the image of a mythic dragon dwelling in a dark lord’s castle—a look that has captivated edgy plant fans across the globe. Even now, it remains one of the most iconic and sought-after “cool cacti” out there.
Just from the name, you might think it’s a selected form of G. mazanense , but in reality, it's a hybrid carefully chosen from crossings between closely related Gymnocalyciums like G. mazanense , G. mazanense var.ferox , and G. nidulans . The name “Morikane” actually honors its creator, Mr. Morikane Suzuki from Isuzu-en nursery in Aichi Prefecture. Since these plants are grown from seed, individual variation is a given—in fact, it’s said that "out of 100 seedlings, only one or two will have the truly striking 'look'," making it a tough but rewarding hobby.
| Season Type | Summer |
|---|---|
| Sun Exposure | - |
| Hardiness | 0℃ / 32℉ |
| Blooming Season | - |
Gray display shows general information for Gymnocalycium.
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Because they are mostly raised from seed (although pups sometimes grow, it’s not common), plants can look quite different from one another—something that both delights and frustrates collectors. Even at the same size, the "face" of each plant can make a big difference in price.
Morikane Matenryu’s creator was the legendary founder of Isuzu-en nursery in Aichi Prefecture, Mr. Morikane Suzuki (wait, that was his actual name? That’s way too cool!), and it all began around 1964–1965.
Back then, there was a cactus enthusiast who loved to visit the nursery and even stay overnight. By a twist of fate, he ended up being adopted in Argentina. He collected cacti in the Andes mountains while working in agriculture (this was long before restrictions on collecting wild plants like CITES, so please note this can't be done today).
The Morikane Matenryu was borne from crosses and selection among Gymnocalycium relatives such as G. mazanense , G. mazanense var.ferox , and G. nidulans . The name was suggested by a Tokyo-based Gymnocalycium enthusiast and film cameraman, Mr. Negishi (probably Sakae Negishi—not to be confused with Toshiwa Negishi who is often mentioned for Echeveria).
Interestingly, it wasn’t a hit right after its release. Its popularity exploded after Mr. Muraji (the boss of Kyosen-kai) purchased one at a high price, and that story began to circulate among collectors.
This information was recompiled from a valuable interview with Mr. Morikane Suzuki’s son, Junhiko Suzuki, the second-generation owner of Isuzu-en, conducted by COOL CACTUS and shared here. Although the original website has since been taken down, the archived record remains a priceless resource.
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チビ魔天も新刺出してきた。 調子良いようでなにより。 #gymnocalycium #gymnocalyciummazanense #mazanense #cactus #ギムノカリキウム #守金魔天竜 #魔天竜 https://t.co/io8xkrRo8y
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