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Unconditional Satisfaction GuaranteeNo Shipping Fees Above 302 Months to Decide. Returns Simplified.Notocactus magnificus, also known as Parodia magnifica or the Balloon Cactus, is a beautiful, globular species native to southern Brazil, Uruguay, and Argentina. A member of the Cactaceae family, it is celebrated for its distinctive blue-green colouring, perfect symmetry, and soft golden spines that give it a luminous appearance.
This cactus forms a spherical to slightly columnar shape, typically 1015 cm across, with up to 20 pronounced ribs that run vertically along the body. The ribs are lined with evenly spaced, short, pale-yellow spines that contrast beautifully against the blue-green skin. Mature plants may produce offsets at the base, forming small clumps over time.
In summer, Notocactus magnificus blooms with bright yellow, silky, funnel-shaped flowers from the crown, adding vibrant colour to its elegant form. Its combination of symmetry, soft spination, and compact size makes it one of the most ornamental and beginner-friendly cacti available.
Thrives in bright light to full sun. Indoors, position near a south- or west-facing window. Outdoors (in warm months), it can be grown in full sun with good airflow.
Water moderately during the growing season (spring to early autumn), allowing the soil to dry completely between waterings. In winter, keep almost dry to prevent root rot. Avoid water sitting in the crown, especially in cooler months.
Temperature: Prefers warmth, 2030C in summer. In winter, can tolerate temperatures as low as 5C if kept completely dry.
Humidity: Prefers dry air; avoid excess humidity.
Use a gritty, free-draining cactus mix with added perlite, pumice, or coarse sand. Repot every 23 years in spring, refreshing the soil to maintain drainage and nutrients. Choose a shallow pot to accommodate its compact root system.
Feed monthly in spring and summer with a diluted cactus fertiliser to encourage healthy growth and flowering. No feeding is required during winter dormancy.
Minimal maintenance required. Remove spent flowers and any damaged tissue. Handle gently to avoid breaking spines or damaging the plants natural waxy coating.
A slow-growing species, typically forming a single globe up to 1520 cm tall. Over time, mature specimens may produce offsets, forming attractive clumps.
Soft or discoloured base: Overwatering or poor drainage.
Shrivelled appearance: Dehydration water sparingly once dry.
Pests: Occasionally mealybugs or spider mites; treat promptly if spotted.
Notocactus magnificus is one of the most popular and photogenic cacti, admired for its flawless geometric shape and soft, luminous appearance. Its highly suitable for beginners, requiring little care while offering year-round structure and occasional bursts of yellow flowers. Its blue-green hue also makes it an excellent contrast plant in succulent arrangements or minimalist dcor.
Quick Care Summary
Light: Bright light to full sun
Water: Sparingly; let soil dry fully between waterings
Temperature: 2030C; tolerates 5C if kept dry
Humidity: Low; prefers dry air
Soil: Gritty, well-draining cactus compost
Feed: Monthly in spring/summer
Growth: Slow-growing spherical cactus, 1020 cm tall; blue-green body with golden spines and yellow summer blooms
