About
Parodia schwebsiana, the ball cactus, is a solitary, globose to shortly cylindrical cactus to 12 cm tall with hooked, reddish central spines and shorter radials. Deep-red, funnel-shaped flowers to 3 cm across are produced at the apex. An easy-care cactus for a sunny greenhouse bench or windowsill.
About the genus
Parodia are globose to shortly cylindrical, ribbed, spiny cacti from South America producing funnel-shaped flowers near the apex in shades of yellow, orange or red. Popular, easy-care cacti for a sunny greenhouse bench or windowsill.
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, Houseplants, Conservatory Greenhouse
HabitColumnar upright
FoliageEvergreen
HeightUp to 10 cm
Spread0-0.1 metre
Time to full height5-10 years
Suggested usesPatio and container plants
Native toBolivia
Care notes
CultivationGrow under glass in a peat-free, loam-based potting compost with added extra grit. Water moderately when in growth sparingly when dormant. Apply a balanced liquid fertiliser 2 or 3 times in the growing season
PruningNo pruning required
PropagationPropagate by seed sown in spring or summer
Pest resistanceAphids and mealybugs may cause problems
Disease resistanceGenerally disease-free