Pack Size: 20, 100, 300
Year: 2026
Accepted Scientific Name: Parodia scopa (Spreng.) N.P.Taylor
Horticultural Name: Notocactus scopa var. albispinus
Alternative Name: Parodia scopa subsp. succinea f. albiseta
Origin and Habitat:
Notocactus scopa albispina is a distinctive white-spined horticultural form of Parodia scopa, a cactus species native to southern Brazil and Uruguay. The species inhabits rocky grasslands, open hillsides, and exposed slopes, where plants grow in shallow, well-drained soils among rocks and sparse vegetation. These environments experience warm summers, cooler winters, and seasonal rainfall, with periods of reduced moisture. The white-spined albispina form is primarily known from cultivation rather than a documented wild population. It has been selected for its unusually dense, pure white spination, which gives the plant an attractive silvery appearance. Its compact growth habit and contrasting yellow flowers make it particularly desirable among cactus collectors.
Description:
Notocactus scopa albispina is a slow-growing cactus characterized by its globular to short cylindrical shape and exceptionally dense covering of fine, white spines. Mature individual stems typically reach approximately 1–3" in diameter and 2–6" tall, occasionally becoming taller with age. Older plants may produce numerous basal offsets, gradually forming attractive clusters.
The dark green stems develop approximately 18–24 narrow, rounded ribs divided into small tubercles. Closely spaced, woolly areoles produce approximately 15–30 fine, white radial spines measuring 0.1–0.4" long, accompanied by several slightly longer, more rigid white central spines. Together, these create a dense, silvery covering that partially conceals the green stem beneath.
Mature plants produce attractive, funnel-shaped flowers approximately 1.2–1.6" across, displaying brilliant lemon-yellow to golden-yellow petals with contrasting reddish stigmas. Flowers emerge near the crown during late spring and summer, often appearing in clusters or forming a ring around the growing point. Following flowering, small rounded fruits develop, containing numerous fine black seeds.
Its brilliant white spination, compact cylindrical growth, and vivid yellow flowers make this an attractive addition to specialist cactus collections.
Cultivation:
Zone: 9–11; protect from prolonged frost and excessive winter moisture.
Temperature: Optimal growth at 18–28 °C. Maintain winter temperatures around 5–10 °C under dry conditions.
Growth Rate: Slow to moderate, initially developing a compact globular body before becoming short cylindrical and eventually producing basal offsets.
Soil: A fast-draining cactus mixture containing pumice, fine gravel, and a moderate proportion of organic matter. Good drainage and adequate root aeration are essential for healthy growth.
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. Avoid prolonged waterlogging.
Fertilizing: Apply a diluted, low-nitrogen cactus fertilizer every 2–3 weeks during active growth. Discontinue feeding during winter.
Light: Bright light to partial sun. Gentle morning sunlight encourages compact growth, dense white spination, and healthy flowering. Protect from intense afternoon sunlight during extreme heat, particularly for young plants.
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. Introduce brighter light gradually as seedlings mature and begin producing their characteristic fine white spines.
