Notocactus scoparubra

🌿 Scientific Classification

• Scientific Name: Notocactus scoparubra

• Synonym: Parodia scoparubra

• Family: Cactaceae

• Genus: Notocactus (now often included in Parodia)

• Origin: Native to southern Brazil and Uruguay

🌼 Plant Description

Notocactus scoparubra is a small, globular cactus known for its vibrant reddish spines and brilliant yellow blooms. The plant forms a single rounded stem that can reach up to 10 cm in diameter and 12 cm in height. Mature specimens may produce offsets at the base, forming small clusters over time.

The body of the cactus is a deep green to bluish-green, featuring 10–12 well-defined ribs with areoles closely set along them. Each areole carries 8–10 fine radial spines that range in color from reddish to orange-brown, giving the plant a stunning contrast.

During spring to summer, Notocactus scoparubra produces large, funnel-shaped yellow flowers (about 4–6 cm in diameter) that open at the crown. The bloom period lasts several days, and multiple flowers may appear at once, making it a striking ornamental cactus.

🌞 Growing Conditions

• Light: Prefers bright sunlight or partial sun. Too much shade reduces spine color and flowering.

• Temperature: Ideal range 18–30°C; protect from frost below 5°C.

• Watering: Water moderately in summer; keep almost dry in winter. Avoid overwatering.

• Soil: Use well-draining cactus mix with sand and pumice.

• Fertilizer: Monthly feeding during the growing season with a diluted cactus fertilizer.

• Propagation: Easily propagated by seeds or offsets.

🪴 Uses

• Excellent for indoor cactus displays, rock gardens, and succulent collections.

• Ideal choice for decorative pots or terrariums due to compact size and vivid spines.

🧩 Key Features

• ✅ Compact, globular cactus

• ✅ Red to orange-brown spines

• ✅ Bright yellow summer flowers

• ✅ Easy to grow and maintain

• ✅ Perfect for collectors and beginners