Gymnocalycium pflanzii

A largely solitary grower, Gymnocalycium pflanzii features a globose form that reaches only 4 inches tall and 6 inches wide at maturity. The ribs forms unique rounded masses across the surface of the plant, which are in turn topped with woolly white areoles from which emerge several tan, arching spines. As if all of this wasn’t intriguing enough, the stem can take on a purple hue when amply ‘stressed’ by bright sunlight – giving all the more reason why Gymnocalycium pflanzii is a must-have addition to any succulent collection!

In its native South American environment, this cactus variety is most often found growing in the shade of other plants, making Gymnocalycium pflanzii especially well suited to thriving as a houseplant. Bear in mind, however, that too deeply shaded of a location will prevent the plant from blooming – which would be a real shame, given the stunning nature of its large, creamy blooms with deep magenta throats!

Beyond its lighting requirements, Gymnocalycium pflanzii prefers thorough but infrequent watering, a porous soil mixture within a well-draining pot, and ample airflow around its stem and soil surface. During the winter months, take care not to expose this cactus to freezing temperatures, which could otherwise cause permanent damage.

Plant sizing is based on the diameter of the nursery pot (2", 2.5", 3", 4" etc), not the plant itself. Plants may be slightly larger or smaller than the pot they are grow in depending on availability or time of year. While we do our best to ship plants as similar to those pictured as possible, please keep in mind that all plants are unique from one to the next, and display color, shape, and growth variation based on current environment, time of year, and other contributing factors. Please note that we ship our plants as dry as possible in the fall and winter months to prevent root rot or freezing. They will plump back up after planting!