Gymnocalycium buenekeri Seeds - Exotic Cactus Succulent - Combined Global Shipping - NEW

Gymnocalycium, commonly called chin cactus, is a genus of about 70 South American species of cacti. The genus name Gymnocalycium (from Greek, "naked calyx") refers to the flower buds bearing no hair or spines. Their main area of distribution is Argentina, part of Uruguay, Paraguay, southern Bolivia and part of Brazil. Most species are rather small varying from 4 to 15 centimetres in size. They are popular for their easy flowering habits, and the flowers are generally brightly coloured.

Gymnocalycium species are slow to get to a reasonable size. It will offset after a considerable period of time. They are summer growers and needs regular water in summer (but do not over-water). Keep rather dry in winter. They do not like extremely bright situations. Give them some shade during the hottest part of the day.

Keep them in a low PH compost; otherwise growth will stop altogether. Feed it with a high potassium fertilizer in summer. It is quite frost resistant if kept dry (hardy to -5° C). They are best grown in pots and also do well in rockeries.

Gymnocalycium buenekeri was originally described as a variety of Gymnocalycium horstii, but the description was technically invalid. However the two species are very similar, both have very similar great pink flowers and the same (usually) five ribbed appearance, and good, yellow spines. It can clump and is quick to grow. Very easy to grow, this plant offers no cultivation difficulties. It is a summer grower and needs moderate to copious watering during summer. It is reasonably frost resistant, to -4° C or even lower if kept dry during winter. Feed with a high potassium fertilizer during summer. They thrive in full sun to light shade. The gorgeous flowers of these beautiful cacti will impress any visitor to your garden or rockery!