Gymnocalycium baldianum

RHS Plant Profile
dwarf chin cactus
Award of Garden Merit
Cactus Succulent Conservatory Greenhouse

A cactus with solitary, flattened-globose stems with 9-11 tubercled ribs and bristle-like radial spines. Funnel-shaped flowers 4cm across are deep pink to crimson in summer

Position

Full sun

Soil Types

Loam, Sand

Max Height

Up to 10 cm

Max Spread

0-0.1 metre

Size

Time to Maturity
5–10 years
Max Spread
0-0.1 metre
Max Height
Up to 10 cm

Growing Conditions

Loam Sand
Moisture
Well–drained
pH
Acid or Alkaline or Neutral

Position

Full sun
Aspect
South–facing or North–facing or East–facing
Exposure
Sheltered
Hardiness
H2

Colour & Scent

Season Stem Flower Foliage Fruit
Spring
Summer
Autumn
Winter

Botanical Details

Family
Cactaceae
Native to GB/Ireland
No
Foliage
Evergreen
Habit
Bushy
Genus
Gymnocalycium can be spherical or cylindrical cacti, with ribs divided into rounded, spiny tubercles, and funnel-shaped flowers in early summer
Name Status
Correct
Plant Range
NW Argentina

How to Grow

Cultivation

Grow under glass in a standard cactus compost, in bright, filtered light, with good ventilation. When in growth water moderately and feed every two or three weeks with a balanced liquid feed. Keep almost dry in the winter

Propagation

Propagate by seed sown at 19 - 24°C in early spring

Suggested planting locations and garden types

  • Patio and container plants

Pruning

No pruning required

Pests

May be susceptible to mealybugs

Diseases

Generally disease-free