(Haworth) Pfeiffer ex Mittler
- Gymnocalcyciumgibbosumv.jpg (61.71 KiB) Viewed 1308 times
Growth Habits: This globular cactus is almost always solitary in growth. It has stout spines which tend to grow away from the body (4 to 6 radial spines with a longer central spine) and oval white areoles that contrast well with the grey/black epidermis. The plant has the prominent 'chins' that are so reminiscent of the Gymnocalycium genus. The plant can grow upwards of 6in. tall (15 cm. plus), and up to 5 inches in diameter (12 cm)
Scientific name: Gymnocalycium gibbosum
Synonyms: Echinocactus gibbosus, Gymnocalycium reductum, Gymnocalycium gerardii, Cactus reductus, Cactus gibbosus, Gymnocalycium chubutense
Common names: Black chin cactus
Etymology: Gymnocalycium: From the Greek words gymnos, meaning naked and kalyx, meaning bud. Gibbosum: Meaning humps or humpy.
Origin: The plant originates from the mountains of Argentina.
Light: Preferred light is full sun in the morning with light shade in the afternoon
Compost: Normal compost is adequate for this plant as long as it drains well.
Water: Average water, but make sure the compost is draining well.
Flower: The flower can be anything from white to a light pink and has a wonderful silky sheen to it. The flowers usually appear in late Spring to early Summer.
Min. temp: 45°-50°f. approx 8-10°c.
Comments: The epidermis on my own plant is as close to black as you are likely to get and when the plant is in peak condition it has a wonderful shine. The Gymnocalycium genus produce some of the most beautiful flowers in the Cactus world, but in this case the added bonus is that the plant is also very unusual and contrasts well with the various shades of green of other plants. It makes a pleasant change from many Gymnocalyciums, that look much the same when they are not flowering.