Synonyms:

Parodia warasii
Eriocactus warasii
Eriocephala warasii
Notocactus magnificus var. warasii

Habitat:

Notocactus warasii is native to South Brasil where the cactus occurs in Rio Grande do Sul. This species grows on rocky hillsides and in deciduous forests and can occur up to 1000 m of altitude range. Although, in its natural environment, seasonal rains are common, the cactus grows on shallow and well-draining soils remaining relatively dry for extended periods.

Description:

Notocactus warasii is a common globular plant belonging to the Cactaceae botanical family. The plant can grow up to 50 cm in height and 20 cm in diameter. The stem is globular, dark green and arranged in 15-16 straight ribs. Each ribs bears small white areoles with radial and central spines not easily distinguishable. The spines are thin, needle-like, 1-2 cm long, golden yellow to copper brown in color. The blooming occurs during the summer and the blossom are borne on the apex of the stem. The flowers are showy, 5 cm large, funnel-shaped, creamy yellow with white stamens. The flowers last for a few days and, after pollination, small, spherical seed pods develop, which contain tiny black seeds. The geometrical harmony of the stem and the vibrant color of the flowers make this plant a popular choice among collectors and enthusiasts.

Cultivation:

This plant is easy to care for and offers a rewarding experience, making it great for beginners. The plant benefits from bright exposure, but during the hottest periods, direct sunlight can cause scorching, so it is recommended to avoid it. The plant is sensitive to temperatures below 6°C, so it should be moved indoors in colder weather. The soil should consist of a mix of pumice, clay, and loam to ensure proper drainage and prevent root rot, to which the plant is susceptible. To facilitate excess water drainage, it is recommended to use a perforated pot. Watering plays a crucial role in the well-being of this species. During the vegetative period, it is recommended to water the plant every 7 days, ensuring that the soil is completely dry before the next watering. In winter, watering should be suspended to allow the plant to enter dormancy. Regarding fertilization, a moderate application of specific succulent fertilizers during the growing season is sufficient. Fertilization should be discontinued in winter. You should repot the plant every 2 years in a pot 2 cm wider. Repotting should be done early in the growing season using fresh potting soil. It is essential to be vigilant for red spiders and mealybugs, as these pests can pose a threat to the plant’s health. Regular checks and prompt intervention are advisable to keep these potential issues under control.

Propagation:

Propagation can be done by offsets or by seed. Although this species doesn’t produce offsets as readily as some other cacti, it occasionally forms small pups around its base that can be removed and rooted. To propagate via offsets, gently detach the pup from the mother plant, allowing the cut end to dry and callous over for several days. Once calloused, the offset can be placed in a well-draining soil mix, where it will root over time with minimal watering. For offsets it is recommended to maintain temperatures around 20 °C. Propagating the plant by seed is very simple; it is enough to sow the seed in a sandy loam soil and keep it at a high level of humidity with a temperature of 14 C°. If you sow seeds collected from your own plants, clean the seeds thoroughly and soak them in water to remove any inhibitors.

Curiosity:

The genus name refers to Lorenzo Raimundo Parodi (1895-1966) Argentine botanist. The specific epithet was given by Eddie Waras, plant collector in Sao Paulo, Brazil. The genus Notocactus was reclassified into Parodia in recent years, though many growers still refer to this species by its former name.

Official Web Site:
www.giromagi.com

Italian Blog:
www.giromagicactus.com

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