Gymnocalycium SCHROEDERIANUM

Gymnocalycium SCHROEDERIANUM - Schroeder's Chin Cactus, Gymnocalycium schroederianum.

Gymnocalycium is a plant genus in the Cactaceae family, comprising about 70 species widely distributed across South America, especially in Argentina, Brazil, Paraguay, Uruguay, and Bolivia at elevations of 800-3000 m (2600-9800 ft) above sea level, on granitic and clay soils.

Gymnocalyciums are valued for their elegant stem contours, typically globose and flattened, with a diameter from 4 to 15 cm (1.6 to 6 in), where the height is approximately half of the diameter. The primary stem coloration varies from greyish-green to brownish-green, sometimes with an almost grey or almost brown tint. Some cultivars feature unusual red or yellow stems devoid of chlorophyll; such plants can only develop in a grafted state. The stems are generally distinctly ribbed, with tubercles situated on the ribs. The spines are moderately rigid, frequently recurved.

The plants are appreciated for their spectacular flowering. The flowers are funnel-shaped with a short tube, developing from areoles at the apex of the stem and opening during the day. In representatives of this genus, unlike most other cacti, the floral tubes lack bristles and hairs, being covered with smooth scales. Coloration varies from white and pink to red, yellow, greenish, or brownish-yellow. The fruits are oblong, juicy or dry, containing large black seeds with a texture characteristic of the genus.

Gymnocalycium SCHROEDERIANUM has a flattened globose solitary stem. Needle-like, straight, appressed spines sit on low, numerous ribs. It blooms with attractive, long cream-colored or almost white flowers. The fruits are cylindrical in shape, olive-grey.

Seeds are sown on the surface of a moist substrate with a pH of around 6.5. Sowings are covered with a lid, and ventilation is provided. Germination temperature is 22-26 °C (72-79 °F).

Seedlings appear in 7-15 days. The maximum germination period is up to 25 days. Pricking out is carried out when the first spines appear. Young seedlings develop quickly and tolerate transplanting well.

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It is positioned on southern or eastern windows with access to bright indirect light. In spring and summer, some direct sun is tolerated. Regular ventilation is desirable, especially in hot weather.

Summer temperature is maintained at 22-28 °C (72-82 °F). In winter, 8-12 °C (46-54 °F) with complete dormancy. Watering is carried out moderately, after complete drying of the substrate. During winter, watering is completely stopped.

A loose mineral substrate with the addition of leaf mold, sand, and crushed brick is used. Repotting is carried out in spring when necessary. Good drainage is mandatory.

During the growth period, mineral fertilizing is applied once every 3-4 weeks. Low-nitrogen cactus fertilizers are used. In autumn and winter, feeding is not applied.

Shaping is not required. Propagation is carried out by seeds. The formation of offshoots is occasionally possible on older plants. Flowering begins in the 3rd-4th year when dormancy conditions are observed.