Parodia penicillata – Powder Puff Ball Cactus

A compact, globe-shaped cactus with dense spines and cheerful yellow flowers, Parodia penicillata is ideal for windowsill displays and small spaces. Its fine, hair-like radial spines give it a soft, brushed texture – hence the name “penicillata,” meaning ‘little brush.’ In summer, it can surprise you with a flush of golden blooms from the crown, often forming a sunny ring.

Scientific Name
Parodia penicillata (penicillata = brush-like, referencing the soft, hair-like spines)

Synonyms
Previously listed as Notocactus penicillatus in older literature

Common Name
Powder Puff Cactus, Parodia penicillata

Origin
Native to southern Brazil and northern Uruguay, especially in rocky grasslands

Light
Prefers bright light with a few hours of gentle direct sun each day. East- or west-facing windowsills are ideal. Avoid intense midday sun, especially if recently moved.

Water
Water when the soil is fully dry. During the warmer months, this may be every 2–3 weeks. In winter, reduce to once a month or less. Always water at the base to avoid rot.

Humidity
Low humidity preferred. Avoid enclosed, humid spaces like bathrooms.

Soil
Use a free-draining cactus soil mix with added grit or perlite. Avoid standard potting composts.

Food
Feed every 4–6 weeks in the growing season with cactus-specific feed. Stop feeding in autumn and winter.

Temperature
Enjoys temperatures between 18–26°C. Can tolerate down to 5°C if kept dry.

Pet-safe
No – mildly toxic if ingested. Keep away from pets and small children.

Sprouts Top Tips
To encourage flowering, provide a cool, dry rest in winter and move to brighter light as days get longer.

Extras
Forms offsets with age – larger clumps can be carefully divided in spring.

Did You Know?
The genus Parodia is named after Argentine botanist Lorenzo Raimundo Parodi, who specialised in South American flora.