Parodia scopa ‘Splendens’ is a distinctive cultivated form of the Silver Ball Cactus, valued for its dense silvery-white spines and contrasting reddish to purplish central spines. The underlying species is native to southern Brazil and Uruguay, where Parodia scopa occurs naturally in subtropical regions.
Silvery spines and symmetrical growth
Young plants develop as neat, rounded globes, gradually becoming more cylindrical with age and sometimes producing offsets around the base to form attractive clusters. Mature stems may eventually reach around 45 cm tall and 6–10 cm in diameter, although growth is relatively slow.
The dark green stem is divided into numerous low ribs, each carrying closely spaced, woolly white areoles. Fine, glassy-white radial spines spread densely across the surface, largely concealing the stem and creating the characteristic silver appearance. Longer central spines provide additional contrast, often developing reddish-purple to brownish-purple colouring.
Bright yellow flowers
Established plants can produce clusters of satiny yellow flowers around the upper crown during the warmer growing season. Individual flowers are approximately 3.5–4.5 cm across and are particularly attractive against the pale spination. The centre is highlighted by conspicuous crimson-red stigma lobes.
Growing Parodia scopa ‘Splendens’
Grow in a free-draining cactus and succulent mix and provide plenty of bright light. Some protection from intense Australian summer afternoon sun is beneficial, particularly for plants grown in small pots. Water thoroughly during active growth, allowing the growing medium to dry between waterings, and keep considerably drier during cold weather.
Good drainage is particularly important during winter, as prolonged cold and wet conditions can lead to root problems. With suitable conditions, this is a relatively straightforward cactus to maintain and develops increasing character as its dense spination and mature form become established.
Parodia Scopa Var. Splendens plants for sale shown in 70mm pot. You will receive same or similar plants to those shown in images. Colours will vary depending on time of year and growing conditions.
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Please Note:
- All plants are sent bare rooted with no pots and soil, or minimum soil only.
- Due to the drying process necessary for sending plants through the mail, plants may look slightly different than images shown on our website.
- Some plants may look wrinkled when they arrive, may be somewhat limp, or soft to the touch. This is normal as they have been dried out for a number of days before shipping to avoid rotting in the mail.
- Succulents are very hardy plants and they will recover quickly, providing you unpack them as soon as you receive them and follow the simple care instructions included with your order.
If you have any questions or concerns at all, please message us via our Facebook page at John & Norma's Succulents for the fastest response.