About
A solitary or clustering cactus to 10cm tall, producing spherical stems with 100 or more wavy ribs. In spring it bears funnel-shaped, pink flowers with a darker pink stripe on each petal. Yellow or grey spines arise from white, felted areoles.
About the genus
A genus of around 10 species of small flowering cacti, native to Mexico. Globular in shape, they can vary greatly in features, but are generally heavily ribbed, spiny and produce tubular flowers in the 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, Houseplants
HabitClump forming
FoliageEvergreen
HeightUp to 10 cm
Spread0-0.1 metre
Time to full height5-10 years
Suggested usesHouseplants, Sub-tropical
Native toMexico
Care notes
CultivationGrow in standard cactus compost in full light with low humidity. When in growth, water moderately and apply a low-nitrogen fertiliser monthly; keep dry in winter. See houseplant cacti and succulent cultivation for further information
PruningNo pruning required
PropagationPropagate by seed
Pest resistanceMay be susceptible to mealybugs
Disease resistanceMay be susceptible to root and stem rots if overwatered