Gymnocalycium ( Gymnocalycium )

Often sold in garden centers as a moon cactus, this popular novalties belong to a genus that houses about 50 species. The base of this cactus is fleshy and has prominent midribs, the top, a colored globe. Flowers are either bell or funnel shaped and are produced when plant is relatively young. A popular houseplant. Grow in well drained soil in full sun.

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Characteristics

Cultivar: n/a  
Family: Cactaceae  
Size: Height: 0.17 ft. to 0.83 ft.
Width: 0.17 ft. to 0.83 ft.  
Plant Category: cacti and other succulents,  
Plant Characteristics:  
Foliage Characteristics: evergreen,  
Flower Characteristics: long lasting,  
Flower Color: oranges, pinks, yellows,  
Tolerances: drought,  


Requirements


Bloomtime Range: Early Summer to Late Summer  
USDA Hardiness Zone: 10 to 11  
AHS Heat Zone: Not defined for this plant  
Light Range: Sun to Sun  
pH Range: 5 to 6  
Soil Range: Some Sand to Potting Soil  
Water Range: Arid to Semi-Arid  





Plant Care

Fertilizing

How-to : Fertilizing Houseplants

Houseplants may be fertilized with: 1. water-soluble, quick release fertilizers; 2. temperature controlled slow-release fertilizers; 3. or organic fertilizers such as fish emulsion. Water soluble fertilizers are used every two weeks or per label instructions. Controlled, slow-release fertilizers are carefully worked into the soil usually only once during the growing season or per label directions. For organic fertilizers, such as fish emulsion, follow label directions. Allow houseplants to 'rest' during the winter months; stop fertilizing in late October and resume feeding in late February.

Light

Conditions : Full Sun for Houseplants

Don't underestimate the light needs of houseplants that require full sun -- they are often tropicals. Place them within 2 feet of a southern exposure window, or at the very minimum, a room that stays bright. Bright rooms have light colored walls, allowing for light reflection.

Conditions : Full Sun

Full Sun is defined as exposure to more than 6 hours of continuous, direct sun per day.

Watering

Conditions : Dry Plants

Dry plants do not tolerate water logged soils and require very little water. Many cacti and succulents fall into this group. Water only when soil becomes completely dry. When watering, do so slowly for a long period of time so that topsoil does not wash away and so that soil has ample time to become moist enough to accept water. It is much better to water for a long time and less frequently allowing soil to dry out completely between waterings.

Planting

How-to : Repot

Now is the right time to repot.

Problems

Miscellaneous

Plant Images

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