Pack Size: 20, 100, 300
Year: 2026
Accepted Scientific Name: Gymnocalycium anisitsii subsp. damsii (K.Schum.) G.J.Charles
Synonym: Gymnocalycium damsii (K.Schum.) Britton & Rose
Origin and Habitat:
Gymnocalycium damsii is an attractive cactus native to South America, with the currently recognized subspecies occurring in Mato Grosso do Sul, Brazil. It inhabits seasonally dry tropical environments, growing in open grasslands, rocky areas, and well-drained soils among sparse vegetation. These habitats experience warm temperatures, seasonal rainfall, and periods of reduced moisture. Plants often grow partially sheltered by grasses and low shrubs, which provide protection from intense sunlight. The species is adapted to alternating wet and dry conditions and is valued for its compact growth habit, distinctive ribbed body, and delicate flowers.
Description:
Gymnocalycium damsii is a compact, globular to slightly flattened cactus characterized by its attractive green to grey-green epidermis and prominent rounded ribs. Mature plants typically reach approximately 2–4" tall and 3–6" in diameter, occasionally producing offsets and forming small clusters with age. The body develops approximately 8–11 broad ribs divided into rounded, chin-like tubercles. Each areole produces several slender, slightly curved spines, ranging from pale yellow to brownish-grey, typically measuring 0.5–1" long. Mature plants produce attractive, funnel-shaped flowers approximately 2–3" across, displaying pale pink to creamy white petals with darker pink or reddish throats. Flowers emerge near the crown during spring and summer, often appearing repeatedly throughout the growing season. Its symmetrical shape, relatively delicate spination, and colourful flowers make it a desirable addition to cactus collections.
Cultivation:
Zone: 9–11; protect from prolonged frost and excessive winter moisture.
Temperature: Optimal growth at 18–30 °C. Maintain winter temperatures above 5 °C for reliable cultivation.
Growth Rate: Moderate, gradually developing a rounded, ribbed body and occasionally producing offsets with maturity.
Soil: A fast-draining cactus mixture containing pumice, fine gravel, and a moderate proportion of organic matter. Good drainage is essential for healthy root development.
Watering: Water thoroughly during active growth, allowing the growing medium to dry between waterings. Reduce watering significantly during autumn and keep mostly dry during winter dormancy.
Fertilizing: Apply a diluted, low-nitrogen cactus fertilizer every 2–3 weeks during active growth. Discontinue feeding during winter.
Light: Bright, indirect light to partial sun. Gentle morning sunlight encourages compact growth and healthy flowering. Protect from intense afternoon sunlight, particularly during hot summer weather.
Pests and Diseases: Susceptible to mealybugs, root mealybugs, spider mites, scale insects, and root rot associated with excessive moisture or poorly draining growing media.
Germination Info:
Temperature: 27 °C.
Surface Sown: Yes. Sow seeds on the surface of a fine, sterilized cactus growing medium and press lightly into place without burying deeply.
Germination Time: Approximately 7–28 days under favourable conditions, although some seeds may require longer.
Moisture: Maintain consistent surface moisture and high humidity during germination, avoiding waterlogged conditions.
Light: Bright, indirect light. Avoid direct sunlight on covered seed trays.
After Germination: Gradually increase ventilation as seedlings establish. Maintain moderate moisture until young plants develop stronger root systems and begin producing characteristic ribs and spines.
