Scientific Name
Parodia leninghausii (Haage) F.H. Brandt
Common Name(s)
Golden Ball, Golden Ball Cactus, Lemon Ball, Lemon Ball Cactus, Yellow Tower, Yellow Tower Cactus
Synonym(s)
Echinocactus leninghausii, Eriocactus leninghausii, Eriocephala lenninghausii, Malacocarpus leninghausii, Notocactus leninghausii, Pilocereus lenninghausii
Scientific Classification
Family: Cactaceae
Subfamily: Cactoideae
Tribe: Notocacteae
Genus: Parodia
Origin
Parodia leninghausii is native to southern Brazil. It occurs in Rio Grande do Sul at elevations ranging from 980 to 4,270 feet (300 to 1,300 m), often on steep, rocky inclines and cliffs.
Description
Parodia leninghausii is a beautiful cactus with erect stems that have about 30 ribs lined with areoles that bear numerous gentle, golden yellow spines. The stems can grow up to 3.3 feet (1 m) tall and 4.8 inches (12 cm) in diameter, clustering from the base. They are initially globular, but become columnar with age.
In the spring and summer, Parodia leninghausii produces yellow flowers arranged in clusters at the top of mature stems, which are at least 8 inches (20 cm) tall. The flowers can reach a diameter of 2 inches (5 cm).
Hardiness
USDA hardiness zone 9b to 11b: from 25°F (-3.9°C) to 50°F (10°C).
How to Grow and Care
If you can grow cacti and succulents successfully, you can likely grow the popular Parodia without too much trouble. However, it's key to remember that Parodia don't like direct sunlight and are accustomed to more even water than many other cacti species. The cactus mustn't be exposed to prolonged dampness and standing water. Never let your cactus sit in a dish of water. To encourage better flowering, allow the plants to enjoy a cooling period in winter and reduce watering significantly. However, unlike other cacti species, you don't need to stop watering entirely. Lastly, ensure that you apply fertilizer during the growing season for the best results.
Repot as needed, preferably during the warm season. To repot a cactus, ensure the soil is dry before repotting, then gently remove the pot. Knock away the old soil from the roots, removing any rotted or dead roots. Treat any cuts with a fungicide. Place the plant in its new pot and backfill it with potting soil, spreading the roots out as you repot.
See more at How to Grow and Care for Parodia.
Links
- Back to genus Parodia
- Succupedia: Browse succulents by Scientific Name, Common Name, Genus, Family, USDA Hardiness Zone, Origin, or cacti by Genus
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