Stefan, I am wondering what might explain the differences between this plant and others I have seen labeled with the same cultivar name. I think this is what you're referring to with the caption "Seems to be a different strain". Some hybrid influence? Something related to conditions in cultivation?

We had a long talk about this one. Main difference is that hamwild central spines are a tad longer. Could be owned due to different origin, or different exposure. But that WAS the definite id given(mostly 4 cross shaped brown central spines, only difference is length). Stems are the same. Keep in mind that this: looks a lot closer to mine,
than this
Here is another from the web
https://images.cactuseros.com/...
But bottom line is
Mine is from dutch wholesale, youll have to ask how hamwild got his. Mine is in near-partial shade, or indoors, hamwilds looks to be strong sun(at least in summer). I did talk a while back about how sun exposure results in longer spines. So you cant really narrow it down to a single factor..

Aaaand it is listed in wholesale
https://cactuso.com/forum/view...
under number 28

You ought to bookmark that page btw. Had it on my pc before i had to re-install it.Took me about a week to find it with the new one.
Might help with ID-ing on the forum, or at least checking(though kind of outdated) availability.

I'm female btw.

But that's an Altman's plant (they're a wholesale cactus and succulent vendor here that sells to places like Lowes or Home Depot). I don't recall where they're located though.

The picture where it is still in a black plastic pot with a little clear plastic holder attached is from the day I brought it home. The next picture with the flower is about a year and a half later.

You're right though, I grow it outside in strong sun for the warmer months.

The spines have definitely gotten longer since I bought it.

I with the pictures were more clear on that link you shared, they're a bit fuzzy. But that's really nice someone went through the time to do that.

Alos, looked it up. Altman is in California.

Edit: Adding a picture from today:

Hamwild said:I'm female btw.

The spines have definitely gotten longer since I bought it.

Ill try to remember that.