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Parodia leninghausii Cactus (Golden Ball Cactus) – Growing & Care Guide
Botanical Name: Parodia leninghausii (formerly Notocactus leninghausii)
Common Names:
- Golden Ball Cactus
- Lemon Ball Cactus
- Yellow Tower Cactus
About the Plant
Parodia leninghausii is a slow-growing cactus native to southern Brazil. It is covered with soft golden-yellow spines that give it a fuzzy appearance. Young plants are round, but as they mature they become tall and column-shaped.
- Plant Type: Cactus (succulent)
- Growth Rate: Slow
- Mature Height: 30 cm–1 m in pots
- Flower Color: Bright yellow
- Blooming Season: Late spring to summer (usually on mature plants)
Pot
- Use a 4–6 inch pot for young plants.
- Repot every 2–3 years into a slightly larger pot.
- Ensure the pot has drainage holes.
Soil
Use a fast-draining cactus mix.
Recommended mix:
- 40% coarse river sand
- 30% perlite or pumice
- 20% cocopeat
- 10% compost or leaf mold
Avoid heavy clay soil.
Light
- Requires 5–8 hours of bright sunlight daily.
- Best outdoors in full morning sun.
- Indoors, place near a south- or west-facing window with plenty of light.
Watering
Water only when the soil is completely dry.
- Summer: Every 7–10 days
- Monsoon: Water only if the soil is dry
- Winter: Every 20–30 days
Never let water stand in the pot.
Temperature
- Ideal: 18–32°C
- Protect from frost and prolonged temperatures below 5°C.
Fertilizer
Feed during the growing season (spring and summer).
- Apply a cactus fertilizer or balanced NPK (such as 19:19:19) at ¼–½ strength once a month.
- Do not fertilize during winter dormancy.
Humidity
- Prefers low humidity.
- Good air circulation helps prevent fungal problems.
Repotting
- Repot every 2–3 years.
- Wait about a week before watering after repotting to allow any root injuries to heal.
Propagation
- By seeds (most common).
- Mature plants sometimes produce offsets, which can be separated and rooted.
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