Growth Habits: Solitary, up to 6 inches in diameter (15 cm)
Scientific name; Parodia werneri ssp werneri
Common names: None that come to mind.
Synonym: Notocactus uebelmannianus, Notocactus arachnites
Etymology: Notocactus -- Derived from the Greek words "Notos" meaning south and "Kaktos" meaning a type of thistle, meaning cactus from the south (America)
The species name uebelmannianus -- Named to honour Werner Uebelmann
Origin: Brazil (Rio grande do sul)
Light: Prefer light shade.
Compost. A free draining standard cactus mix.
Water: Regular water in spring to autumn. I tend to give them a very small ammount about once a month in winter to prevent shrinkage and root loss.
Flower: Red to deep magenta or yellow and 5 cm in diameter
Min temp: Hardy to 25°F (-4°C), for short periods.
Cultivation: Easy to grow and remains solitary, once it reaches about 3 inches (7.5cm) if kept well it will flower every year in late spring/early summer.
Habitat. Rocky outcrops amongst agricultural land, much of the terrain being cultivated for arable crops or grazing pasture.
Comments: Sadly this plant which can be bought for less than the cost of a packet of cigarettes here in the UK is on the verge of extinction in its native habitat.
Note All members of the genus Notocactus are now included in the genus Parodia, hence the name Parodia werneri ssp werneri is the current Scientific name but many growers and plant sellers still use the name Notocactus uebelmannianus.
image of yellow flowered form kindly supplied by cactuspolecat
image showing flower buds
