Parodia leninghausii
Synonym: Notocactus leninghausii
Family: Cactaceae​
​Common Name: golden ball cactus
​Origin: Parodia leninghausii is endemic to the Rio Salado do Sul province of Southern Brazil. It grows in hilly grasslands, the cracks of rocks, or beneath other plants in a pine forest.
Description: P. leninghausii is a globular cactus covered in harmless orange spines. As the cacti ages, stems will become columnar and start to cluster. In summer, mature plants five years and older will produce striking inflorescences of showy yellow flowers, which appear several times each season.
  • Interesting Features:
    • P. leninghausii is both flame and deer resistant.
  • Uses: The golden ball cactus is valued in cultivation as a xerophytic and container plant, and can be used to control the spread of fire.

Cultivation and Care:
  • Watering: Low
    • Water regularly in summer, but only when completely dry – do not allow cacti to stand in moisture.
    • From late September to October, begin to reduce irrigation to prepare for the winter dormant phase, but do not completely cease watering.
    • Regular watering can be resumed in March, and should increase gradually until May, when the growing season begins.
  • ​Soil: Plant in a free-draining mineral compost that will allow the roots to breathe, and maintain a pH between 6.1-7.8.
  • Lighting: Provide as much light as possible, but shade from direct sunlight, especially on hot summer days. Too much shade can cause excessively lush growth, inability to flower, and an increased chance of rotting.
  • Propagation: P. leninghausii can be propagated from seed, woody stem cuttings, and offsets. Allow cuttings to completely callous before planting directly into soil.
  • Cold Tolerance: 25°F, USDA hardiness zones 9b to 11.
  • Special Accommodations: The golden ball cactus is endangered in its natural habitat: always take care to buy from reputable sellers.
    • Additionally, repot about once every three years – do not overpot, as this can lead to stagnant compost and plant death.
    • Fertilizer is not always necessary, and should never be used after September, as the new growth can be fatal during colder months.

Sources:​
  1. World of Succulents
  2. Garden
  3. Llifle Encyclopedia of Succulents
  4. Cactus Art Nursery
  5. Dave’s Garden
  6. Royal Horticultural Society