Frailea pumila — an easy houseplant, prefers partial sun light
SPECIMEN · FROM THE LIBRARY
Frailea pumila

Frailea Pumila

Updated · 218 observations
ON THIS PLANT

Frailea pumila is a species of Frailea from Brazil, Argentina, and Uruguay.

A note from PlantMom

Frailea pumila shows strong resistance to diseases and can handle routine care without becoming ill easily. It can, however, be vulnerable to mealybugs; these pests may cause some harm but are typically not a major danger. Regarding care, Frailea pumila tolerates drought and does not require frequent watering. It can endure extended intervals without water and needs little fertilizer. On the flip side, it is very prone to root rot if kept in poor light and given too much water. In general, Frailea pumila is a good choice for people who prefer low-maintenance plants, but it remains important to meet its basic needs. It is especially appropriate for those who are away for long stretches and might forget to water regularly.

— PlantMom
CARE GUIDE

How to keep Frailea Pumila.

Light

Frailea pumila comes from habitats with filtered light, like the forest understory or rocky areas that provide natural shade. It favors partial sun but can also tolerate full sun.

Temperature

Frailea pumila does best in warm conditions and needs elevated temperatures during the growing season to encourage growth and metabolism. It prefers abundant sunlight, suitable moisture levels, and good air circulation. It can be harmed by very low temperatures and by overwatering. Maintaining a balance is important; extremely high temperatures and overly dry conditions should also be avoided.

Fertilizer

For Frailea pumila, light applications of fertilizer once or twice a year during the growing season are enough. Avoid fertilizing in winter and in summer, when it is dormant. Cut back on fertilizer for repotted plants and wait a couple of months after repotting before applying fertilizer. Fertilizing helps maintain healthy growth and encourages flowering.

Pot & Repot

Repot Frailea pumila in spring or summer, selecting a pot slightly larger than the current one that provides good drainage. Use a well-draining, sandy or gritty cactus mix. Handle the plant carefully to avoid the spines. Let the cactus dry out before repotting to help prevent root rot. After repotting, wait one week before watering so the roots can heal.

CHARACTERISTICS

Botanical profile.

Plant Type
Succulent
Life Cycle
Perennial
Genus
Frailea
Family
Cactaceae
Hardiness Zone
10-11
Mature Height
15 cm
Mature Spread
3 cm to 6 cm
Leaf Color
Dark Green
Leaf Type
Evergreen
Flower Color
Yellow
Flower Size
2.03 cm to 3.05 cm
Bloom Time
Summer, Early fall, Mid fall
Planting Time
Spring, Summer
Harvest Time
Late summer, Fall, Early winter
ALSO KNOWN AS

Other names.

en Fraelia Cactus en Isaka taamara (ఇసక తామర)
PLATES
Frailea pumila leaf
PLATE 01 · leaf
Frailea pumila leaf
PLATE 02 · leaf
Frailea pumila flower
PLATE 03 · flower
Frailea pumila flower
PLATE 04 · flower
Frailea pumila fruit
PLATE 05 · fruit
Frailea pumila fruit
PLATE 06 · fruit
ALSO IN THE LIBRARY

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