Notocactus concinnus var. gerbalitoensis (yerbalitoensis) | Uruguayan Flowering Cactus Growing in 4 Inch (Copy)

Notocactus concinnus var. gerbalitoensis, is a beautiful geographical variant of the highly variable Notocactus concinnus complex. Admired for its compact globular body, neatly defined ribs, and brilliant golden-yellow flowers, this slow-growing cactus develops an elegant symmetry that has made it a favorite among collectors of South American species. During the growing season, mature plants produce flowers that are impressively large in proportion to the plant, creating a vibrant display against its rich green epidermis and finely arranged spines.

Native to the grasslands of northeastern Uruguay, this locality form represents a very different ecological niche than the arid deserts commonly associated with cacti. Its adaptation to seasonal grasslands and rocky outcrops gives it a unique place within the South American cactus flora and makes it an excellent addition to both beginning and advanced collections.

Native Habitat:
This locality form originates from Yerbalito, Cerro Largo Department, northeastern Uruguay, where it grows on weathered rocky outcrops and shallow, well-drained soils within the Uruguayan Pampas. Plants are typically rooted in thin mineral soils over exposed rock among native grasses and seasonal herbaceous vegetation at relatively low elevations. Unlike many desert cacti, this species is adapted to a humid subtropical climate characterized by fairly even rainfall throughout the year, warm summers, cool winters, and excellent natural air circulation.

Flowering Information:
Mature plants bloom from late spring through summer, producing large, satiny golden-yellow flowers with bright yellow stamens and pale green stigmas. Under favorable growing conditions, healthy specimens may flower repeatedly throughout the growing season.

Soil Type:
Prefers a fast-draining mineral cactus mix composed of pumice, coarse sand, fine gravel, decomposed granite, and a modest amount of organic material. Unlike many limestone-adapted Mexican cacti, this species appreciates a slightly more moisture-retentive substrate while still requiring excellent drainage.

Hardiness:
USDA Zones 8–11. Mature plants can tolerate brief temperatures near 20°F (-6°C) when kept completely dry, though protection from prolonged freezing temperatures and excessive winter moisture is recommended. A cool winter rest encourages healthy growth and prolific flowering.

Light Requirements:
Thrives in bright light to full sun, although light afternoon shade is beneficial in regions with intense summer heat. Strong light promotes compact growth, attractive spine development, and abundant flowering while maintaining healthy green coloration.

Propagation:
Primarily propagated from seed, producing vigorous plants with excellent symmetry and natural variation. Mature specimens may occasionally produce offsets, but seed propagation remains the preferred method for preserving the characteristics of this distinctive locality form.

Collector's Note:
The name gerbalitoensis is a long-standing horticultural misspelling of yerbalitoensis, referring to the locality of Yerbalito in Cerro Largo Department, Uruguay. While the incorrect spelling has become deeply established in cultivation and remains the name most collectors recognize, the locality itself is correctly spelled Yerbalito. Modern taxonomic authorities, including Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew, generally include Notocactus concinnus within the genus Parodia, treating this plant as part of the variable Parodia concinna complex. Nevertheless, locality forms such as yerbalitoensis continue to be valued because they preserve the subtle regional differences in morphology and provenance.

This is for one plant similar to the one shown growing in a 4" inch container shipped bare root. All of our plants are guaranteed pest-free and healthy upon delivery, and we ship within the United States. Shipping is done Monday thru Friday.
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