Parodia magnifica
Images by part: leaf (5) · flower (5) · fruit (0) · bark (5) · habit (5) · other (2)

Parodia magnifica

Balloon cactus · Blondie Cactus

Tier 2 Difficulty: easy Water: low Light: full_sun Toxicity: low
Temperature
20–37 °C
Soil pH
6–7
Hardiness
Zone 9–12
Click count
181
Observations
200

Description

Source: leafsnap

Parodia magnifica is a species of cactus in the family Cactaceae. Native to Brazil, it thrives in rocky areas and dry forests. This plant has a globular shape and can grow up to 20 cm in height and 15 cm in diameter. It features numerous ribs, each covered with small, white spines, giving the cactus a fuzzy appearance. In the summer, Parodia magnifica produces bright yellow flowers that are about 4 cm wide. These flowers have numerous petals arranged around a central, tube-like structure called the corolla tube. Parodia magnifica is easy to grow and requires minimal care. It prefers well-draining soil and bright sunlight but can also tolerate partial shade. During the growing season, watering should be done sparingly and should be reduced during the winter when the plant goes dormant. Overall, Parodia magnifica is an attractive cactus with stunning yellow flowers, making it an excellent addition to any cactus collection or garden. Its unique appearance is sure to be appreciated by all who see it!

🌳 The balloon cactus is ideal for prairie or rock gardens in warmer climates. It's best to plant it in a spot that receives light shade. With its distinctive spherical shape and a yellow flower on top, the balloon cactus is often used to create a focal point in a garden.

🎭 Warmth, protection, motherly love

Care Guide

💧 Water
☀️ Light Full sun
Ideal: Full sun
🌡️ Temperature 20–37.8°C
Ideal temperature: 20–37.8°C
💨 Humidity
Humidity:
🪴 Soil 6-7
Soil pH: 6-7
🌱 Fertilizer
🪴 Pot & Repot
✂️ Pruning
🌿 Propagating
🐛 Diseases & pets
☠️ Toxicity

Characteristics

Plant Type
Succulent, Shrub
Life Cycle
Perennial
Genus
Parodia
Family
Cactaceae
Hardiness Zone
9-12
Mature Height
6 cm to 15 cm
Mature Spread
46 cm
Leaf Color
Green, Blue, Yellow
Leaf Type
Evergreen
Flower Color
Yellow, Orange
Flower Size
2.54 cm to 7.62 cm
Bloom Time
Late spring, Early summer, Mid summer
Planting Time
Summer
Harvest Time
Mid summer
Native Area
South America

Tags (25)

Common Names (2)

en Balloon cactus
en Blondie Cactus