November 2010 Gymnocalycium mihanovichii

A more in depth look at individual cactus species, a new one is added each month -managed by Hob
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hob
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November 2010 Gymnocalycium mihanovichii

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Gymnocalycium mihanovichii (Fric & Gürke) Britton & Rose
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Growth Habits: Small solitary plant around 2" (5cm) dia and 1 1\2" (4 cm) tall.

Scientific name: Gymnocalycium mihanovichii

Common names: Chin Cactus, Plaid Cactus

Synonym: Echinocactus mihanovichii, Gymnocalycium mihanovichii var. stenogonum, Gymnocalycium stenogonum

Etymology: Gymnocalycium From the Greek words gymnos, meaning naked and kalyx, meaning bud.
mihanovichii. Named after M. Mihanovich.

Origin: Chaco Boreal in Paraguay.

Light: Light shade, often grows in the shade of taller plants, if left in full sun it will turn a brown colour and can even appear dead. See image below.

Compost: A free draining standard cactus mix.

Water: Regular water in spring to autumn, do not over water, allow soil to dry between waterings, keep dry in winter.

Flower: Greeny brown never fully opening.

Min temp: Hardy to -5 C (23 f).

References. http://www.cactus-art.biz
http://www.cactiguide.com/

Comments. A small plant that requires a little shade, with an unusual flower colour.
This is the plant that is seen all over the world in multi coloured forms grafted onto Hylocereus, an example can be seen below.

Image showing change in body colour when in too much sun.
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One of the many cultivars without chlorophyll that are mainly produced in Japan and grafted onto Hylocereus.
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