Plants in genus gymnocalycium
Gymnocalycium carolinense
Gymnocalycium carolinense, originating from San Luis, Argentina, is a low-growing cactus with a spherical or hemispherical stem. It features dark bluish-green or black-green coloration with bronze touches and blooms in early summer. This cactus is known for its large taproots and ability to form clusters in cultivation.
Gymnocalycium bruchii
Gymnocalycium bruchii is a cactus native to Argentina, forming multi-headed mats of dark green shoots with delicate violet-pink to white flowers. Its low, rounded ribs and tuberous form make it a unique addition to cactus collections.
Gymnocalycium pflanzii ssp. pflanzii
Gymnocalycium pflanzii ssp. pflanzii is a cactus native to Bolivia, known for its solitary or slowly clustering growth habit and backward-bent spine clusters. It is relatively fast-growing and flowers abundantly when provided with a well-drained, rich substrate. This cactus is frost-resistant if kept dry and enjoys extremely bright conditions, making it suitable for sunny locations.
Gymnocalycium monvillei ssp. horridispinum
Gymnocalycium monvillei ssp. horridispinum is a cactus native to Argentina, featuring a globular-shaped stem with metallic grey spines tipped in brown. It grows up to 15-40 cm in height and produces funnel-shaped white flowers with violet-pink edges in early summer.
Gymnocalycium reductum 'Leucodictyon'
Native to Argentina, this dwarf plant has a slightly tubular body and produces white-yellow blooms in clusters in autumn. It is drought-tolerant and prefers partial shade and minimal watering with well-drained soil.
Gymnocalycium monvillei ssp. achirasense
Gymnocalycium monvillei ssp. achirasense, also known as the chin cactus, is a summer-growing cactus with flowers that range from whitish to pale pink or lavender. It grows well in full sun or light shade and requires regular watering in summer while being kept dry in winter. This cactus is native to Bolivia and is known for its slow growth and globose shape.
Gymnocalycium quehlianum
Gymnocalycium quehlianum is a summer-growing cactus species known for its creamy-white flowers with a dull red throat. It requires regular watering in summer but should be kept dry in winter. This plant is hardy to temperatures as low as 10°F and thrives in extremely bright conditions, although it prefers filtered sunlight or afternoon shade to prevent sun scorch. Its ability to bronze in strong light encourages flowering and heavy spine production.
Gymnocalycium mesopotamicum
Gymnocalycium mesopotamicum is a small cactus endemic to Argentina, known for its pure white flowers that can reach up to 2.5 inches in diameter. This summer grower prefers filtered sunlight or afternoon shade and requires moderate watering during the growing season. It is hardy to temperatures as low as 10°F and needs space for its roots to develop. The plant's solitary nature in the wild contrasts with its branching habit in cultivation.