Parodia werneri

Scientific Name

Parodia werneri Hofacker

Accepted Scientific Name

Parodia crassigibba (F.Ritter) N.P.Taylor

Synonym(s)

Notocactus uebelmannianus, Ritterocactus uebelmannianus

Scientific Classification

Family: Cactaceae
Subfamily: Cactoideae
Tribe: Notocacteae
Genus: Parodia

Etymology

The specific epithet "werneri" (pronounced "WER-ner-ee") honors Werner Uebelmann🡕 (1921–2014), a prominent Swiss nurseryman and collector of cacti

Origin

Parodia werneri is native to the Rio Grande do Sul province in southern Brazil. It is not accepted as a separate species and is treated as a synonym of Parodia crassigibba.

Description

Parodia werneri, formerly known as Notocactus uebelmannianus, is a small cactus with a usually solitary, dark green stem or sometimes branched basally, forming small clumps over time. The stem is globose with appressed spines and can grow up to 5 inches (12.5 cm) tall and 7 inches (17.5 cm) in diameter.

From spring to early summer, Parodia werneri bears a ring of amazing magenta-to-royal-purple flowers. The flowers are funnel-shaped and can reach about 2 inches (5 cm) in diameter.

How to Grow and Care for Parodia werneri

Hardiness: USDA hardiness zone 9b to 11b: from 25°F (-3.9°C) to 50°F (10°C).

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 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 the winter and dramatically cut back watering. Unlike other cacti species, however, you don't need to stop watering entirely. Lastly, make sure to fertilize during the growing season for the best results.

Repot as needed, preferably during the warm season. To repot Parodia, make sure the soil is dry, then gently remove the pot. Knock away the old soil from the roots, making sure to remove any rotted or dead roots. Treat any cuts with a fungicide. Place the plant in its new pot and backfill with potting soil, spreading the roots out as you repot.

See more at How to Grow and Care for Parodia.