Dwarf Chin Cactus

Family

Cactaceae

Native

Argentina

Description

Gymnocalycium baldianum is a small cactus with solitary, flattened-globose stem, usually unbranched and up to 5 inches in diameter, with 9 to 10 broad ribs and 5 to 7 bristle-like radial spines. The flowers are purple-red, sometimes pinkish-purple (but also white, pink or orange) and up to 1.5 inches in diameter. They are followed by long, green fruits.

Environment

Dwarf Chin Cactus tolerates extremely bright situations but enjoys filtered sunlight or afternoon shade, inside it needs bright light, and some direct sun. Tends to bronze in strong light, which encourages flowering and heavy spine production, but is likely to suffer from sun scorch or stunted growth if over exposed to direct sunlight during the hottest part of the day in summer. The soil is usually a rich sandy loam. Rains are frequent during the summer.

Needs moderate to copious watering in summer, but do not over water. Feed with a high potassium fertilizer in summer.

Landscape Uses

It is an excellent plant for garden rockery settings, desert type landscapes, patios and botanical gardens