Parodia Magnifica

Picture via fickleprickles

Basic Info

Parodia Magnifica is a small rounded cactus that is covered in spines. As the plant matures you can expect it to grow slowly up to around 20 cm (8″) tall and about 15 cm (6″) in diameter. The plants main feature is the green to light green stem that is covered by long thin stems.

Scientific Classification

Family: Cactaceae
Subfamily: Cacatoideae
Tribe: Notocacteae
Genus: Parodia

Care and Propagation Information

Watering

Parodia Magnifica can be quite beautiful when it is well-taken care off. This succulent type needs typical watering as the other succulents. The watering method is very important to keep your Parodia  ‘Ball Cactus’ healthy. It should not sit on the water, and an excess amount of water should be avoided. The best way of watering is soak and dry method this succulent. Yet, the succulent should be controlled to avoid overwatering.

General Care for Parodia Magnifica ‘Ball Cactus’

This succulent type is a rare one which blooms in the spring. When it blooms, you will enjoy pink-orange flowers. It is a nice addition to your outside garden!

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Quick Facts:

  • Prefers full sun
  • Can be grown outdoor
  • Grows 20 cm (8″) tall
  • Grows up to 15 cm (6″) wide
  • Can die easily if overwatered see: How to Water Succulent Plants
  • Does not handle cold well
  • Prefers Zone 9a-11b -3.9 °C (25 F)
  • Best propagated by seeds
  • Ball shaped

Where to Plant

Parodia Magnifica ‘Ball Cactus’ succulents need strong light. When planting this succulent type in a garden, make sure it gets sunlight. Full to partial sun is the best for its growth. It is better to grow outdoor rather than indoor.

This type of succulent prefers a warm climate. It can survive at zone 9b-11b which is around -3.9 °C (25 °F). If you live in a cold area, it is better to plant Ball Cactus in an indoor environment. As long as it gets enough sunlight, the plant will grow happily.

How to Propagate Parodia Magnifica ‘Ball Cactus’

Ball Cactus can be propagated by seeds. This succulent type does not require repotting often. Of course, the first-time repotting is essential when it is bought from the store.

Like all the other succulent types, a well-drained soil mixture is essential. If you want to know about well-drained soil mixtures, check How to Prepare Well-drained Soil for Succulent Plants.

How to Propagate Parodia Magnifica ‘Ball Cactus’ Using Seeds

This succulent type is a slow grower so even if it can be propagated by its seeds, this method is not recommended. To propagate from the seeds, plant the seeds in a well-draining soil mixture. This method can be used outdoors. In cooler areas, indoor propagating is recommended.

Origin and Habitat

The ball Cactus is native to Brazil