A remarkable trend has been sweeping across social media, captivating many plant collectors. At the forefront of this trend stands the Gymnocalycium, a genus of cacti that seems to grab the attention of every enthusiast that sees one. In this blog post, we delve into the world of Gymnocalycium cacti, uncovering the reasons behind their surging popularity, and explaining how to care for them.
Unveiling the Gymnocalycium Cactus
Gymnocalycium, commonly referred to as “chin” cactus, hails from the deserts of South America, particularly Argentina. Being native to arid regions, these plants have earned their reputation as hardy and drought-tolerant. This characteristic makes them a perfect choice for collectors seeking low-maintenance, yet still captivating plants.
There is another reason this family of cacti is so popular, though. Their aesthetic diversity is unmatched in the plant world, with a wide variety of shapes, sizes and colours. From brightly coloured variegation to undulating waves of crested stem mutations, there is no lack of choice for any enthusiast’s taste. Each species is unique in its own way. Gymnocalycium mihanovichii, Gymnocalycium damsii, and Gymnocalycium horstii all have different shades of colour. Crested specimens are also slowly trickling into collections, such as Gymnocalycium anisitsii and Gymnocalycium baldianum. Lastly, all of the species mentioned above produce exceptionally beautiful flowers.
Caring for Gymnocalycium
While these cacti are known for their hardiness, they do require some specific conditions to thrive.
- Light: Provide them with ample sunlight, preferably in a location with partial sun or 40% shade cloth. Do not keep them in shade.
- Soil: Use a well-draining soil medium to prevent root rot. Their roots need to breathe, so use plenty of gritty components like Ibaraki Akama, Hyuga Pumice and perlite.
- Watering: Only water in spring and summer. Keep these plants completely dry in autumn and winter. Allow the soil to dry out before watering again.
- Growing season: Like most cacti, these are spring and summer growers that prefer warm temperatures. They can withstand cooler conditions as well, but should be protected from frost during the winter months.
- Fertilization: Feed with a diluted balanced fertilizer during the growing season (spring and summer) to support healthy growth. You can also add small amounts of slow release fertilizer to the soil.
- Pot size: You should use a pot that is only 2-3cm bigger than the plant’s main stem. Using a pot that is too large will allow too much water to stay in the soil around the roots.
Pollinating Gymnocalycium
Pollinating these cacti to get seed is relatively straightforward. To start off with, one needs two specimens that are flowering at the same time. Using a fine paintbrush, collect some pollen from the anther (yellow) of the first plant’s flower, and brush it against the stigma (central white stalk) of the other plant. Now repeat the process in reverse to pollinate the second plant. If successful, once the flower wilts, a seed pod will begin to form.
Gymnocalycium anisitsii flower
Gymnocalycium mihanovichii flower
Add a Gymnocalycium to your collection
Living Desert Plants has a variety of Gymnocalycium for sale. Visit the cactus shop category on our website to view our selection.
Written by Harry Lewis, succulent specialist & conservationist