Scientific Name
Rebutia deminuta (F.A.C. Weber) Britton & Rose
Common Name(s)
Crimson Crown Cactus
Synonym(s)
Aylostera deminuta, Echinopsis deminuta
Scientific Classification
Family: Cactaceae
Subfamily: Cactoideae
Tribe: Trichocereeae
Genus: Rebutia
Description
Rebutia deminuta is a small, free-flowering cactus that grows solitary or branching around the base to form small mounds up to 4 inches (10 cm) in diameter, barely rising above ground level. This species is very variable. The stems are dark shiny green, globular to more or less cylindrical, sometimes tapering apically, up to 2.4 inches (6 cm) tall and 1.4 inches (3.5 cm) in diameter. They have 11 to 13 ribs arranged spirally and divided into bumps. The areoles are whitish-gray. Spines are up to 0.25 inches (6 mm) long, sometimes curved, ocher or pinkish, and become white with a rusty brown tip.
The flowers are red, orange, or dark purple, funnel-shaped, up to 1.2 inches (3 cm) long with equal diameter, and appear in a ring around the base of the stem.
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 Rebutia without too much trouble. Their water and light requirements are fairly typical for many cacti species, including a cooling period in the winter to promote better blooming. Watering should be done carefully, allowing the soil to almost dry out between waterings. The cactus mustn't be exposed to prolonged dampness and sitting water. Never let your cactus sit in a dish of water. For the best viewing, instead of propagating your offsets, let the plant for a large cluster. When it blooms, this will make a truly beautiful display. Lastly, make sure to fertilize during the growing season for the best results.
Repot as needed, preferably during the warm season. To repot a cactus, make sure the soil is dry before repotting, then gently remove the pot.
See more at How to Grow and Care for Rebutia.
Origin
Rebutia deminuta is native to Bolivia and Argentina.
Links
- Back to genus Rebutia
- Succupedia: Browse succulents by Scientific Name, Common Name, Genus, Family, USDA Hardiness Zone, Origin, or cacti by Genus
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