Parodia haselbergii, commonly known as the Scarlet Ball Cactus, is a charming little cactus admired for its rounded shape, dense covering of fine, silvery-white spines and spectacular scarlet-red flowers. Its almost fluffy appearance gives it a wonderfully soft look, although those delicate spines are surprisingly sharp! Compact and slow-growing, this unusual cactus makes a fantastic addition to a sunny windowsill or collection of miniature desert plants.
Scientific Name
Parodia haselbergii (also known as Brasilicactus haselbergii and Notocactus haselbergii)
Common Name(s)
Scarlet Ball Cactus, Scarlet Ball Parodia, Haselberg’s Cactus
Origin
Native to southern Brazil, particularly the state of Rio Grande do Sul, where it grows in rocky grasslands and exposed areas with plenty of sunlight and excellent drainage.
Light
Prefers very bright light and several hours of direct sunlight each day. A sunny south or west-facing windowsill is ideal. Some protection from particularly intense midday sunlight may be beneficial during summer, especially for plants that have been grown in lower light conditions.
Water
Allow the soil to dry out completely between waterings, then water thoroughly and allow excess water to drain away. Water more regularly during spring and summer when the plant is actively growing, but avoid keeping the compost consistently damp. Reduce watering significantly during autumn and winter.
Humidity
Prefers low to average humidity with good airflow. Avoid particularly humid environments and do not mist the plant, as moisture trapped among its dense spines can encourage rot.
Soil
Use a very free-draining cactus and succulent mix with plenty of added mineral material such as perlite, pumice or grit. Excellent drainage is essential to prevent root rot.
Food
Feed every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer with a diluted cactus and succulent fertiliser. Little to no feeding is required during autumn and winter.
Temperature
Prefers temperatures between 18–28°C during active growth. A cooler, dry winter rest can help encourage flowering, ideally around 8–12°C. Protect from frost and prolonged cold, particularly when the soil is damp.
Pet-safe
Generally considered non-toxic to cats and dogs, although its numerous fine spines can cause physical injury. Keep out of reach of pets and children.
Sprouts Top Tips
Give your Scarlet Ball Cactus plenty of bright light during spring and summer, followed by a cooler, drier resting period during winter. This seasonal change can help encourage its spectacular flowers to appear.
Avoid watering directly over the top of the cactus, as moisture can become trapped among its dense spines. Instead, water carefully around the base of the plant.
Extras
Parodia haselbergii typically develops a rounded, ball-shaped body covered in fine white spines. As it matures, it may become slightly elongated and occasionally produce offsets.
Established plants can produce beautiful scarlet-red to orange-red flowers near the crown, usually during spring. The vibrant flowers create a striking contrast against the cactus’s silvery-white spines.
Did You Know?
The Scarlet Ball Cactus is named after its spectacular bright red flowers, which are particularly unusual among the many yellow-flowering species of Parodia.
Despite its soft, fluffy appearance, the white covering is made up of hundreds of fine spines that help protect the plant from intense sunlight and reduce moisture loss in its natural habitat.
