Gymnocalycium saglionis

Gymnocalycium saglionis

You will receive a specimen similar to the one shown here.
Measures 4"W x 2.5"h.
Showcased here in one-of-a-kind handmade pottery (sold separately).
Roots as shown.
Will be shipped bare root.

Gymnocalycium saglionis, also known as the Giant Chin Cactus, is a fascinating and visually striking cactus species native to Argentina.

Description and Appearance:

• Body: Globular or barrel-shaped, with a dull green or bluish-green stem. It has distinct, wavy ribs.
• Size: Can grow to impressive sizes, reaching up to 40 cm in diameter and 90 cm in height.
• Spines: Features robust, curved spines that are yellowish-brown, reddish, or white and turn grey as they age. The spines can grow up to 4 cm long and often bend back against the stem. Interestingly, the spines turn bright red when wet.
• Flowers: Produces beautiful flowers that are typically white or reddish, and can be pale pink. The flowers are funnel-shaped and relatively large compared to the plant's size.
• Fruit: Globular and reddish or dark pink, containing tiny, shiny black-brown seeds. 

Habitat and Origin:

• Native Area: Northwest Argentina, found in provinces like Salta, Tucuman, Catamarca, San Juan, and La Rioja.
• Environment: Thrives in rocky, arid areas with intense sunlight and minimal rainfall, growing at elevations between 240 and 2,600 meters. 

Cultivation and Care:

• Growth Rate: Slow-growing.
• Light: Prefers full sun to partial shade. Too little light can lead to weak and leggy growth. Protection from direct sunlight during the hottest part of the day in summer is advisable.
• Watering: Drought-tolerant and requires infrequent watering. Allow the soil to dry out completely between waterings to avoid root rot. Water deeply during the growing season (summer) and reduce watering in the winter.
• Soil: Requires well-draining soil, such as a cactus and succulent mix with added mineral grit.
• Temperature: Prefers temperatures between 60°F and 85°F. Can tolerate temperatures as low as 50°F when kept dry.
• Fertilizing: Not strictly necessary, but can be done during the growing season to encourage faster growth. Use a cactus-specific fertilizer.
• Dormancy: Goes dormant in winter, requiring less water and fertilizer.
• Propagation: Primarily through seeds, as it doesn't typically produce offsets. 

Additional Information:

• Common Names: Giant Chin Cactus.
• Toxicity: Not considered toxic to humans or pets.
• Pests: Can be susceptible to mealybugs and spider mites.
• Uses: Cultivated as an ornamental plant. Its fruits are edible and used to make jam.
• Awards: Gained the Royal Horticultural Society's Award of Garden Merit in the UK.