Frailea castanea

Frailea castanea is a South American cactus that thrives in undisturbed rocky areas, but is vulnerable to livestock and damage from agricultural practices. Its yellow flowers and pumpkin-like shape are appealing to growers. It is a popular houseplant that thrives when exposed to plenty of sunlight.

Scientific classification

Species

Frailea castanea (Frailea castanea)

Pinks, cacti, and allies

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Annual

Lifespan

Succulent

Plant Type

2 cm

Plant Height

5 cm

Spread

Deciduous

Leaf type

Images of Frailea castanea

Care Guide for Frailea castanea

Every 3 weeks

Water

Full sun

Sunlight

20 - 41 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Water: Frailea castanea is well-suited to dry conditions with high drought tolerance, needing minimal water—ideally every three weeks. Typically grown indoors, its growth cycle requires careful management of watering to replicate its natural environment, where infrequent rainfall occurs.

Fertilize: During the growing seasons (spring, summer, fall), fertilize frailea castanea monthly with liquid fertilizer; avoid winter fertilization. Use a slow-release fertilizer when repotting. Apply low-concentrate nitrogen fertilizer for seedlings and phosphate-potassium fertilizer pre- and post-blooming, and stop if yellowing occurs.

Pruning: Frailea castanea requires minimal pruning, focusing on the removal of withered flowers and branches. This practice helps redirect the plant's nutrients toward healthier growth.

Propagation: Main propagation methods for frailea castanea include division and grafting. Division involves cutting branches and planting them in soil to form new shoots. Grafting requires a suitable rootstock, where frailea castanea is inserted and secured; after 1-2 weeks, the graft unites, allowing for the new plant's growth.

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Learn More About Frailea castanea

How to Transplant

How to Grow and Care

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