Free Gymnocalycium Andreae Plants

The diminutive Gymnocalycium is a small plant that makes a worthwhile contribution to a collection of cacti and succulents grown either on a sunny windowsill or in a conservatory. It is attractive throughout the year, but at its best when it comes into bloom, producing yellow flowers that are so large they almost dwarf the plant. The chin-shaped nodules, or tubercles, on the plant have earned it the common name of Chin Cactus. As with propagating other cacti, it is wise to allow the cut edges of the offsets to dry out a little for a day or so before inserting them into the compost. Take care when choosing the varieties ofthe plant, as some produce quite fierce spines for their size.

Plant type : Flowering cactus with low-growing, globular habit
Season of interest : Summer
Size : 5cm (2in)
Flower : Radiating petals forming yellow flowers, 2.5cm (1 in) wide
Leaf : Globular, greyish green stem with small spines
Temperature : 7-30°C (45 — 86°F)
Aspect/Light : Direct sun
Humidity : Low
Watering : Evenly moisten compost in spring and summer, allowing to dry out a little before re-watering; keep on the dry side in autumn and winter, watering just enough to prevent dehydration
Feeding : Once every two to three weeks with half strength flowering plant fertilizer in spring and summer
Propagation : Plant offsets in cactus and succulent compost at 21 -22°C (70—72°F) in late spring to early summer
Potting : Cactus and succulent compost
Problems : Mealy bug
Availability : Occasionally available in spring and summer
Uses indoors : Warm and sunny windowsill or in conservatory
Other varieties : G. baldianum- pink or red flowers, G. denudalum- white flowers