Emm's Plant House

Parodia chrysacathion Ø20cm

£33.00 GBP

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Pot Size Ø20cm

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Parodia chrysacanthion, commonly known as the "Golden Torch Cactus," is a stunning cactus native to Argentina. It is known for its spherical shape, vibrant golden spines, and striking yellow to orange flowers that bloom in the summer. The golden spines give the cactus a "torch-like" appearance, creating a captivating visual contrast against the green body. This relatively small cactus is perfect for cactus collectors or those seeking an easy-care succulent with a bold and colorful presence in their collection.

Full Botanical Name: Parodia chrysacanthion
Common Names: Golden Torch Cactus
Country and/or Region of Origin: Native to Argentina
Growing Conditions in Native Habitat: Grows in dry, rocky soils in arid climates with full sun exposure and minimal rainfall

Care Guide

Care Guide:

Light: Prefers full, direct sunlight. Parodia chrysacanthion thrives in bright, direct sunlight and needs at least 6 hours of sunlight per day to grow optimally and bloom.

Ideal Room: Suitable for sunny windowsills, patios, or outdoor cactus gardens. It can also be grown indoors in a well-lit location or under grow lights if natural sunlight is limited.

Feeding: Fertilize sparingly, once every 4-6 weeks during the growing season (spring to summer) with a diluted cactus or succulent fertilizer to encourage healthy growth and vibrant blooms.

Humidity: Tolerates dry air and is perfect for homes with low humidity, making it ideal for desert-inspired indoor environments.

Ideal Temperature: Best kept between 70°F and 85°F (21°C to 29°C). It can tolerate cooler temperatures but should be protected from frost to avoid damage.

Watering: Water sparingly, allowing the soil to dry out completely between waterings. Overwatering can lead to root rot, so ensure that the plant has good drainage and never leave it sitting in water.

Pet/Child Safe: Toxic to pets and children if ingested, so care should be taken to keep this plant out of reach of animals and young children. The plant’s spines are also sharp, so handle with care.

Soil Type: Use a well-draining cactus or succulent mix. A mix containing sand or perlite helps ensure that water drains quickly and prevents root rot.

Propagation: Propagate by offsets or stem cuttings. Allow the cuttings to callus over for a few days before planting them in dry, well-draining soil to encourage rooting.

Eventual Height and Spread: Typically grows up to 6-8 inches (15-20 cm) tall with a spread of about 6-8 inches (15-20 cm), making it a compact and attractive cactus for small spaces or containers.

Growth Rate: Slow-growing. It may take several years to reach full size, but with the right care, it will produce vibrant blooms once mature.

Pests and Treatment: Generally resistant to pests, but may occasionally attract mealybugs or aphids. Treat infestations with insecticidal soap or neem oil to prevent damage.

Repotting: Repot every 2-3 years or when the plant becomes root-bound. Choose a pot with good drainage to ensure healthy root growth and prevent waterlogged conditions.

Pruning: Prune dead or damaged stems to maintain the plant’s appearance. Pruning is typically minimal but will help keep the plant looking neat.

Air Purification: While not specifically known for air-purifying qualities, Parodia chrysacanthion adds a beautiful, natural touch to your home or garden, creating a desert-inspired focal point.

Folklore: Like many cacti, Parodia species are thought to symbolize strength, resilience, and protection. Some cultures believe cacti bring good luck and positive energy, as they thrive in harsh conditions where other plants might not survive.

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