Ball Cactus (Parodia magnifica): A Handsome Globe with Silky Yellow Spines and Crown of Flowers

Ball Cactus, or Parodia magnifica, is a solitary to slowly clustering globular cactus that becomes shortly columnar with age. Its body is a deep green, obscured by dense, soft, yellow to golden spines that give it a fuzzy, glowing appearance. In summer, a ring of large, sulfur-yellow flowers with red stigmas encircles the crown. Native to southern Brazil, it’s a favorite for its symmetry and ease of care.

Taxonomic Profile

Culture

Full sun to light shade. Gritty, fast-draining soil. Water regularly in summer; keep dry in winter. Hardy to 20°F (-7°C) if dry. Protect from winter wet. Propagate from seeds or offsets.