About
A small, solitary cactus with a spherical, dark green stem to 4cm tall, and spidery, white radial spines. In early summer, funnel-shaped pale yellow flowers are produced from the top of the stem.
About the genus
Gymnocalycium can be spherical or cylindrical cacti, with ribs divided into rounded, spiny tubercles, and funnel-shaped flowers in early summer
Growing conditions
SunlightFull sun
Soil typeLoam, Sand
Soil pHAcid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moistureWell-drained
AspectSouth-facing, West-facing
ExposureSheltered
UK hardinessH2
Plant details
Plant typeCactus Succulent
HabitMatforming
FoliageEvergreen
HeightUp to 10 cm
Spread0-0.1 metre
Time to full height5-10 years
Suggested usesHouseplants, Patio and container plants
Native toUruguay, Brazil
Care notes
CultivationGrow in cactus compost in full light with shade from hot sun. Water freely in spring and summer, applying a low nitrogen fertiliser every month. See houseplant cacti and succulent cultivation for further information
PruningNo pruning required
PropagationPropagate by seed sown at 19-24°C in late winter or early spring; remove offsets in spring
Pest resistanceMay be susceptible to mealybugs
Disease resistanceGenerally disease-free