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Cactus SucculentHouseplantsConservatory Greenhouse

Parodia schwebsiana

ball cactus

A solitary globose to shortly cylindrical stem to 12cm in height, 8cm diameter, with hooked reddish central spines and shorter radials; flowers to 3cm across, funnel-shaped, deep red

Size
Ultimate height
Up to 10cm
Time to ultimate height
5–10 years
Ultimate spread
0–0.1 metre
Growing conditions
Loam
Sand
Moisture
Well–drained
pH
Acid, Alkaline, Neutral
Colour & scent
StemFlowerFoliageFruit
Spring
Summer Red
Autumn
Winter
Position
  • Full sun
Aspect

South–facing or West–facing

Exposure
Sheltered
Drought resistance
Yes
Hardiness
H2
Botanical details
Family
Cactaceae
Native to GB / Ireland
No
Foliage
Evergreen
Habit
Columnar upright
Genus

Parodia are cacti with either solitary or clustered, many-ribbed, globose, spiny stems, with funnel-shaped flowers near the apex

Name status

Correct

Plant range
Bolivia

How to grow

Cultivation

Grow 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

Propagation

Propagate by seed sown in spring or summer

Suggested planting locations and garden types
  • Patio and container plants
Pruning

No pruning required

Pests

Aphids and mealybugs may cause problems

Diseases

Generally disease-free

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