Notocactus Magnificus

Notocactus Magnificus Care

Parodia Magnifica

What is the plant

Ball Cactus (Parodia Magnifica) is a species of flowering plant in the Cactaceae family. Thanks to its bright colors and unusual appearance, this plant can become an exquisite decoration of any home or garden.

Ball Cactus has a green-blue cylindrical stem in the shape of a ball. When it matures, it can reach up to 5 inches (15 cm) in length. It has 11–15 sharp, straight, deeply cut ribs. On the ribs are oblong white-pubescent areoles. There are 12-15 thin and golden radial spines. Light yellow flowers have broad petals in 2 rows. Over time, relatively small dry fruits are formed.

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Humidity

Dry

Lighting

Full Sun

Temperature

10°C - 12°C

Hardiness zone

9a - 10

Difficulty

Easy

Hibernation

Cold Period

How to Care for the Plant

Water
During the period of active growth, Ball Cactus needs regular watering. Moisten the soil around the plant when its top layer dries out. Try to avoid stagnation of the liquid. It can lead to root rot! In winter, you need to reduce the frequency of watering.
Pruning
Parodia magnifica does not need pruning. You only need to ensure that the plant is not affected by pests. If there is an infestation, the affected parts might need to be removed.
Fertilizer
During intensive growth, fertilize your green pet 2 times a month. To do this, apply fertilizers for succulents and cacti half-strength.

Disease diagnosis

Check your plant’s health

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Sunlight
Parodia magnifica loves light and tolerates the sun well. You can place the plant pot on the south windowsill. In autumn and winter, you need to provide additional lighting. The abundance of future flowering depends on it, so make sure to take proper care of your green friend!
Soil
Suitable soil for Parodia magnifica should be loose, rich in nutrients, and well-drained. To prepare it yourself, combine leafy, sod, peat soil, expanded clay, and coarse sand in equal proportions. You can also use a ready-made potting mix for cacti.
Propagation
Since Ball Cactus may not sprout for several years, it is best to propagate this plant from seeds. Seeds germinate at a temperature of 68-77°F (20-25°C) just a few days after planting. After they sprout, be patient! Sprouts can grow very slowly.

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Temperature
In summer, the temperature should be 72-77°F (22-25°C). In the autumn-winter period, Ball Cactus enters dormancy. At this time, you need to place your cactus in a cool place. Maintain it at 50-54°F (10-12°C). The temperature should never fall below 45°F (7°C) degrees!
Container
You can use any container of a suitable size. Make sure there are drainage holes at its bottom. Since Ball Cactus grows slowly, it does not need frequent repotting. If you need to repot your green pet, you can do it in the spring, before the period of intensive growth begins, or in the fall, when flowering ends.
Fun fact
This plant is endemic to the Brazilian state of Rio Grande do Sul.