Gymnocalycium spegazzinii v. unguispinum – Old - Seed grown

Gymnocalycium spegazzinii v. unguispinum – seed grown

You will receive this exact, old specimen.
Measures 4" wide x 4” tall.
Roots as shown.
Showcased here in one-of-a-kind handmade pottery (sold separately).
Will be shipped bare root. 

Gymnocalycium spegazzinii var. unguispinum is a sought-after variety of cactus, particularly prized by collectors for its unique, claw-like spines. 

Appearance

This variety has a depressed globular stem, about 6 cm high and 14 cm in diameter, and is grayish-green with 13 broad, low ribs. Its elliptic areoles feature the most distinctive characteristic: typically 5 short, stout, claw-shaped spines less than 1 cm long that curve outward and downward. 

Growth and care

• Growth Rate: This is a slow-growing cactus, sometimes grafted onto a more robust species to encourage faster growth.
• Light: Prefers filtered light or afternoon shade, tolerating some direct sun indoors but avoiding strong, direct sun in hot periods to prevent damage or stunted growth.
• Soil: Requires well-draining soil, such as a cactus mix, and should not contain limestone.
• Watering: Water frequently during the growing season, letting the soil dry between waterings, and reduce watering in winter.
• Temperature: While it tolerates high temperatures, it is not cold-hardy and needs protection from freezing. It is suitable for USDA Zones 9b to 11b.
• Repotting: Repot every two years or when the plant outgrows its container, ideally in late winter or early spring.
• Propagation: Primarily propagated by seed due to rare offset production. Seeds are best sown in late spring to early summer at 21-27°C. Cuttings can also be rooted. 

Origin and habitat

Gymnocalycium spegazzinii var. unguispinum originates from northwestern Argentina, found at altitudes around 3000 meters above sea level. 

Taxonomy

Botanists often consider unguispinum a synonym or cultivar of Gymnocalycium spegazzinii. The name "unguispinum" means "with claw-like spines," referring to its characteristic feature.