Gymnocalycium bruchii
Family: Cactaceae​
​Common Name: chin cactus
Origin: Gymnocalycium bruchii originates from Argentina and is endemic to the Córdoba and San Luis provinces.
Description: G. bruchii is a bluish-green dwarf cactus with flattened stems and 12 shallow ribs. It clusters when small, each stem covered in distinctive, bristled white spines. In spring, funnel-shaped white to pink flowers appear, followed by green fruits.
  • Interesting Features:
    • The chin cactus is highly variable, possessing many different forms and a wide range of habitats.
  • Uses: G. bruchii has been cultivated for use in xeriscape and alpine gardens.

Cultivation and Care:
  • Watering: Moderate
    • Water frequently during the summer months, allowing to completely dry out in between irrigation. During the winter, suspend watering, and always take care not to leave in soggy soil.
  • Soil: Cultivate in a light, porous cactus soil with excellent drainage. Although this cacti tolerates poor soil, it prefers a lower pH and should never be planted with limestone, or growth may cease.
  • Lighting: Provide strong sunlight and afternoon shade, with direct light indoors. Frequent exposure to sun will encourage flowering and allow heavy spine formation.
  • Propagation: G. bruchii can be propagated from woody stem cuttings, offsets, and by seed. Germinate seeds in spring and avoid exposing new plants to direct sunlight.
  • Cold Tolerance: 10°F, USDA Hardiness zones 8a to 11.
  • Special Accommodations: Requires some protection from frost, but is one of the most tolerant South American cacti. However, G. bruchii may occasionally need protection from mealy bugs and red spiders.

Sources:​
  1. Plant Desert
  2. Garden Tags
  3. Cactus Art Nursery
  4. World of Succulents
  5. Dave's Garden
  6. Garden
  7. Llifle Encyclopedia of Cacti