Gymnocalycium mostii subsp. valnicekianum is a globose, dark green cactus native to montane regions of Argentina. The spines can vary between plants – with differing combinations of curved, straight, long, short, weak and strong. It produces white flowers with a flushed red centres that are 7cm wide, in spring and summer.
Gymnocalycium mostii subsp. valnicekianum is very easy to grow on a sunny windowsill or in a greenhouse. Water freely in summer and feed with a high potassium feed. This species is said to be hardy down to -12°C, but it will need to be kept dry over winter to ensure its survival.
Protect from the hottest summer sun, especially if grown under glass, to avoid sun scorch and stunted growth.
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Gymnocalycium and wildlife
Gymnocalycium has no particular known value to wildlife in the UK.
