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Parodia scopa
Parodia scopa
Parodia scopa
Parodia scopa

Parodia scopa

TAXONOMY

FamilyCactaceae
GenusParodia
Zone9

ABOUT

Parodia scopa, commonly known as the Silver Ball Cactus, is a small, globular cactus native to South America, particularly Brazil, Uruguay, and Argentina. It is known for its dense covering of white spines and bright yellow flowers that bloom in the summer. This cactus prefers subtropical climates and is well-suited to both indoor and outdoor environments.

ALSO KNOWN AS

Silver Ball Cactus
Cactus scopa
Cereus scopa
Echinocactus scopa
Echinocactus scopa f. albicans
Echinocactus scopa f. candidus
Echinocactus scopa var. albicans
Echinocactus scopa var. candidus
Echinopsis scopa
Echinopsis scopa var. candida-cristata
Malacocarpus scopa
Notocactus glomeratus
Notocactus rudibuenekeri
Notocactus rudibuenekeri subsp. glomeratus
Notocactus rudibuenekeri var. glomeratus
Notocactus scopa
Notocactus scopa f. albicans
Notocactus scopa f. candidus
Notocactus scopa f. cobrensis
Notocactus scopa f. daenikerianus
Notocactus scopa f. erythrinus
Notocactus scopa f. glauserianus
Notocactus scopa f. machadoensis
Notocactus scopa f. marchesii
Notocactus scopa f. succineus
Notocactus scopa f. xicoi
Notocactus scopa f. xiphacanthus
Notocactus scopa subsp. marchesii
Notocactus scopa subsp. succineus
Notocactus scopa var. albicans
Notocactus scopa var. cobrensis
Notocactus scopa var. daenikerianus
Notocactus scopa var. glauserianus
Notocactus scopa var. machadoensis
Notocactus scopa var. marchesii
Notocactus scopa var. murielii
Notocactus scopa var. xicoi
Notocactus scopa var. xiphacanthus
Notocactus soldtianus
Notocactus succineus
Parodia rudibuenekeri
Parodia rudibuenekeri subsp. glomerata
Parodia scopa subsp. marchesii
Parodia scopa subsp. scopa
Parodia scopa subsp. succinea
Parodia succinea
Peronocactus rudibuenekeri
Peronocactus rudibuenekeri subsp. glomeratus
Peronocactus scopa
Peronocactus scopa subsp. marchesii
Peronocactus scopa subsp. succineus

OVERVIEW

WaterDry
SoilSandy
LightDirect Bright (6 Hours)
Temperature25° C
Humidity40%
Dormancy3 Months
pH6.5
Pressure1,013 mbar

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DETAILS

Care Instructions
Parodia scopa thrives in bright, direct sunlight and prefers moderate temperatures. It should be watered sparingly, allowing the soil to dry out almost completely between waterings. This cactus does well in low humidity environments and can tolerate a range of temperatures, though it prefers warmer conditions.
Soil
This cactus prefers well-draining soil, such as a sandy or cactus mix. Good drainage is essential to prevent root rot. A mix of sand, perlite, and a small amount of organic matter works well.
Fertilizer
Fertilize Parodia scopa with a balanced cactus fertilizer, such as 5-10-10, during the growing season. Apply the fertilizer sparingly, about once a month, to avoid over-fertilization.
Repotting
Repot Parodia scopa every 2-3 years or when it outgrows its current pot. Choose a pot that is slightly larger than the current one and ensure it has good drainage. Handle the cactus carefully to avoid damaging the spines.
Propagation
Parodia scopa can be propagated from seeds or offsets. Offsets can be removed and planted in a well-draining soil mix. Allow the offsets to callous over for a few days before planting to prevent rot.
Pruning
Pruning is generally not required for Parodia scopa. However, you can remove any dead or damaged parts to maintain its appearance.
Toxicity
Parodia scopa is not toxic to pets or humans. However, the spines can cause physical injury if handled improperly.
Additional
Ensure that Parodia scopa is protected from frost, as it is not frost-tolerant. During its dormancy period in the winter, reduce watering significantly to prevent root rot.
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