Care of the cactus Gymnocalycium schickendantzii |
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The genus Gymnocalycium, family Cactaceae, includes more than 60 species of cacti native to South America. Some species are: Gymnocalycium schickendantzii, Gymnocalycium vatteri, Gymnocalycium schroederianum, Gymnocalycium gibbosum, Gymnocalycium spegazzinii, Gymnocalycium saglionis, Gymnocalycium damsii, Gymnocalycium baldianum, Gymnocalycium mostii, Gymnocalycium denudatum, Gymnocalycium mihanovichii, Gymnocalycium andreae, Gymnocalycium pflanzii, Gymnocalycium platense. This species is native to Argentina. Gymnocalycium schickendantzii is a dark green or bluish-green, globose cactus that reaches 13 cm in height and 20 cm (7.87") in diameter. It has 7-14 ribs and oval areoles with 5-7 curved radial spines up to 3 cm (1.18") long. The showy white or pink flowers appear at the apex of the plant. The large red fruits are egg-shaped. It is used in rockeries, cactus and succulent gardens, and in pots for patios, terraces, windowsills, and balconies. Gymnocalycium schickendantzii grows in full sun and light shade exposure. The safe winter temperature is 3 °C (37.4 ºF). The soil can be a commercial potting mix for cacti and succulents. Repotting is done in spring. Always water moderately, waiting until the potting mix has completely dried. Fertilize once in spring and once in summer with mineral fertilizer for cacti. Pruning is not necessary. It is a plant that is fairly resistant to common pests and diseases but sensitive to excess moisture in the roots and frost. Gymnocalycium schickendantzii propagates from seeds sown in spring in a sandy seedbed. |
Images of the cactus Gymnocalycium schickendantzii |
 Gymnocalycium schickendantzii  Gymnocalycium schickendantzii |