Scientific Name
Parodia ottonis subsp. horstii (F.Ritter) Hofacker
Synonym(s)
Notocactus arechavaletae var. horstii, Notocactus horstii, Notocactus ottonis subsp. horstii, Parodia horstii, Peronocactus horstii, Peronocactus ottonis subsp. horstii, Wigginsia nothohorstii
Scientific Classification
Family: Cactaceae
Subfamily: Cactoideae
Tribe: Notocacteae
Genus: Parodia
Origin
Parodia ottonis subsp. horstii is native to Brazil (Rio Grande do Sul).
Description
Parodia ottonis subsp. horstii is a small cactus with flattened or spherical stems with 6 to 16 ribs lined with clusters of spines. The stems are green, and the crown is covered in spiny white wool. They can grow solitary or slowly clustering, reaching up to 1 foot (30 cm) tall and 6 inches (15 cm) in diameter.
The flowers, which appear in early spring, can be yellowish-orange, pink, or violet-purple and can reach up to 1.4 inches (3.5 cm) in diameter.
Hardiness
USDA hardiness zones 9a to 11b: from 20 °F (−6.7 °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 is key to remember that Parodias 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 sitting water. Never let your cactus sit in a dish of water. To encourage better flowering, allow the plants to enjoy a cooling period in the winter and dramatically cut back watering. However, unlike other cacti species, you don't need to stop watering entirely. Lastly, fertilize during the growing season for the best results.
Repot as needed, preferably during the warm season. To repot Parodia, 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 as you repot.
Learn 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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