Mini-Show Cactus: Mammillaria-hooked spines

Mini-Show Succulent: Caudiciform (Beaucarnia, Calibanus, Dioscorea, Fockea, etc.)

South Coast Botanic Garden, members and their guests free admission.

Al Klein Bio: Al’s interest in the natural world started in his childhood in Chicago.  His favorite hobbies were growing exotic plants like cacti, and collecting fossils, minerals, and insects.
After moving to California at the age of 17 he found his passion in plants.   He was employed by South Shores Nursery in San Clemente California while attending California State Polytechnic University in Pomona, where he received his Bachelor of Science in Ornamental Horticulture with emphasis in landscape design and retail nursery management.
He initially worked at Rodgers Gardens in Corona Del Mar, California, and within a year was promoted to Nursery Manager.  He then helped open a nursery-gift shop in Escondido California, called Canterbury Gardens and Gifts. He ultimately became a partner in the business. Al recently retired from Canterbury Gardens after 35 years of service. Al is now running his own nursery business, Botanic Wonders full-time. Botanic Wonders specializes in growing and selling rare and exotic plants, including rare succulents, cacti, and cycads.