James H. Schutte
Family
Cactaceae
Botanical Name
GYMNOCALYCIUM saglionis
Plant Common Name
Chin Cactus
Special Notice
This entry has yet to be reviewed and approved by L2G editors.
General Description
This easy-to-grow cactus bears soft pink flowers and presents a tidy, green sphere for potted gardens. Chin cactus is native to northern Argentina and is believed to be tolerant of occasional light frost. That makes it a great candidate for outdoor potted collections and in-ground rock gardens. The species bears the unique depressed center typical of the genus. There are from 10 to 30 ribs, with prominent rounded tubercles. From the areoles spring dirty yellow spines which may vary in color to nearly black, but all turn gray at maturity. Each areole bears 1 to 3 straight spines and 10 to 15 radial spines, which are often curved backward toward the plant.
This Gymnocalycium is a spring bloomer in the desert but elsewhere flowering may be delayed until summer. From the outside edge of the depressed center rise beautiful rounded buds with large smooth scales in an upright stem. Blossom are pink with reddish throats, but they may vary to pale pink or creamy white in some individuals. Pollinated flowers mature into small rounded red fruits, which contain seed that is genetically variable. This explains why those plants grown from seed can bear a wide range of characteristics such as very few spines. Absence of spines can expose a great deal of blue green skin to sunlight, and if not grown in sufficient shade they will burn. Also beware that the depressed center can hold water, and if grown in a moist climate it will not evaporate fast enough to prevent rot.
Characteristics
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AHS Heat Zone
12 - 10
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USDA Hardiness Zone
9 - 12
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Sunset Zone
12, 13, 21, 22, 23, 24
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Plant Type
Cactus or Succulent
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Sun Exposure
Full Sun
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Bloom Time
Spring
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Native To
South America, Argentina
Growing Conditions
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Soil pH
Acidic, Neutral, Alkaline
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Soil Drainage
Well Drained
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Soil type
Loam, Sand
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Tolerances
Drought
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Growth Rate
Slow
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Habit
Oval/Rounded
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Seasonal Interest
Spring, Summer, Fall, Winter
Ornamental Features
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Flower Interest
Showy
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Flower Color
Pink, Light Pink
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Fragrant Flowers
No
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Fragrant Fruit
No
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Fragrant Foliage
No
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Bark or Stem Fragrant
No
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Repeat Bloomer
No
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Showy Fruit
Yes
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Edible Fruit
No
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Showy Foliage
No
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Evergreen
Yes
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Showy Bark
No
