Parodia Schumanniana

About Parodia Schumanniana

Parodia Schumanniana, a charming globular cactus belonging to the Cactaceae family, is native to the grasslands and rocky slopes of southern Brazil. Renowned for its compact, rounded form and vibrant floral displays, this slow-growing succulent is an ideal choice for small-space cultivation—especially in its 2-inch juvenile stage, where it exhibits a plump, symmetrical shape that fits perfectly on desktops, windowsills, or mini succulent arrangements.

In its young state, the cactus features a smooth, deep green stem segmented into 12–15 distinct, slightly rounded ribs. From each rib’s areole (tiny cushion-like nodes), clusters of short, soft spines emerge—typically in shades of pale brown or golden yellow—adding subtle texture without the harshness of larger cactus varieties. As it matures (over several years), it may develop a slightly flattened top, but its compact size remains a key appeal.

Come late spring to early summer, mature Parodia Schumanniana produces showstopping blooms: bright, funnel-shaped yellow flowers (often with a striking red or orange center) that emerge from the cactus’s apex. Its low-maintenance nature and petite stature make it a favorite among beginner cactus growers and seasoned enthusiasts alike.

How to Care for Parodia Schumanniana

Light: Requires bright, direct sunlight to maintain its compact shape and encourage flowering. Aim for 4–6 hours of daily direct light—south or east-facing windows (in the Northern Hemisphere) are ideal. In hot, arid climates, provide light afternoon shade to prevent sunburn on the tender stem, especially for the 2-inch juvenile plants.

Water: Follow a "soak-and-dry" routine to mimic its native semi-arid habitat. For the 2-inch potted size (which dries out faster than larger pots), water thoroughly only when the soil is completely dry to the touch (typically every 1–2 weeks during spring–fall growth season). Reduce watering to once every 3–4 weeks in winter, when the plant enters dormancy—overwatering is the primary cause of root rot, especially in small containers.

Temperature: Thrives in average household temperatures between 65–75°F (18–24°C). Protect from temperatures below 50°F (10°C); prolonged exposure to cold (below 40°F/4°C) can damage the stem or trigger rot. Avoid drafty areas (e.g., near windows with cold winter air).

Soil & Potting: Use a well-draining cactus/succulent potting mix amended with 30–40% perlite, pumice, or coarse sand to ensure rapid water drainage—critical for the 2-inch plant’s small root system. Choose a small terracotta pot (matching the 2-inch size) with drainage holes; terracotta’s porous material helps wick excess moisture, reducing rot risk.

Fertilizer: Feed sparingly during the growing season (spring–early fall) with a balanced, water-soluble cactus fertilizer diluted to half the recommended strength. Apply once monthly—avoid over-fertilizing, as the 2-inch plant’s small root system is sensitive to nutrient buildup. Discontinue feeding entirely in winter.

Pests & Disease: Rarely troubled by pests, but may occasionally attract mealybugs or scale insects (often hiding in rib crevices). Treat infestations promptly by dabbing pests with a cotton swab soaked in isopropyl alcohol, or use a mild insecticidal soap. Root rot from overwatering is the most common issue—ensure soil dries fully between waterings.

Propagation: Most successfully propagated from seeds (sown in well-draining soil and kept warm/moist until germination) or offsets (small "pups" that may form at the base of mature plants). For offsets, gently separate them from the parent, allow the cut end to callus for 2–3 days, then plant in a small pot with cactus mix. The 2-inch juvenile plants are too young to produce offsets, so propagation is best left for mature specimens.

More Information

Primary color: Deep green stem (unstressed state); pale brown/golden yellow spines
Secondary color: Bright green stem with subtle reddish tinge on rib edges (with prolonged sun exposure); intensified golden spines
Bloom color: Bright yellow (often with red/orange central stamens)
Product format: 2 inch potted plant
Cold hardiness: USDA Zones 10–11 (tolerates brief dips to 40°F/4°C; best grown indoors year-round in Zones below 10)
Suitability: Indoor small containers, desktop decor, mini succulent arrangements, windowsill collections, beginner-friendly displays
Propagation: Stem cuttings (primary); Offsets (from mature plants)
Special characteristics: Compact size, soft non-irritating spines, showy blooms, low maintenance, ideal for small spaces, beginner-friendly

We pack all shipments by hand. 

We have many years of experience shipping live succulents and cactus plants. We pay close attention to packing and have developed an expert shipping method. All succulents are packed and protected with polypropylene cotton (this is a stuffing used for dolls). We find this is the most effective material for protecting live plants while in transit. It is important to us that you are able to Keep going and Keep growing without any stress about the quality of the product or packaging.

Shipping Speed

In general, it takes 3 to 10 days for plants to arrive after you place your order. All orders will be shipped out 48 hours after you place them. We ship the orders on work days(from Monday to Saturday) and all year round. In normal conditions, it will take 3-10 days for you to receive the package. Estimated shipping times are offered as needed.

HOLIDAYS: During weeks in which a holiday occurs - Memorial Day, 4th of July, Labor Day, Thanksgiving, Christmas, New Year's, etc. - shipping may be delayed until the following week.

EXTREME WEATHER NOTICE: The Next Gardener reserves the right to hold shipments during storms or periods of extreme heat or cold. This is to ensure your plant does not suffer while it is in transit.

Winter shipping

We insist on shipping succulents to our customers all year round. However due to the extreme winter weather, although we pack succulents with as much protective material as possible, plants are still at increased risk of frost on their way to colder areas. We highly recommend adding one 72-hour heat pack to your order or you can request a hold on the package until it warms up.

Please note that The Next Gardener is not responsible for packages that suffer cold damage without a heat pack. We cannot control the weather. Order at your own risk.

Hawaii, Alaska, and Other US Territories

Fortunately, shipping is available to Alaska, Guam, and other U.S. Territories. However, due to numerous factors beyond our control, including customs checks and shipping delays, free shipping to Hawaii and Puerto Rico is not an option. And we can not provide the 14-day quality guarantee for orders going to Hawaii and Puerto Rico. The buyer will assume all risk of damage when a delivery is delayed. We appreciate your understanding.

Sorry. No International Shipping for now!!!