Thick stands of Velvet Cactus occur along steep ocean-facing hillsides where moist maritime fogs may encourage survival. From a distance, as sun filters through the multitude of golden spines, a colony of these cacti takes on a deceivingly smooth, velvety appearance. Threatened by development, collection for horticultural uses, and feral goats, the Velvet Cactus is found in southern San Diego County, on San Clemente and Santa Catalina Islands, and throughout Baja California.