Turbinicarpus beguinii subsp. beguinii

About Turbinicarpus beguinii subsp. beguinii

Turbinicarpus beguinii subsp. beguinii, a diminutive and highly sought-after globular cactus from the Cactaceae family, is endemic to the arid limestone hills and rocky outcrops of San Luis Potosí, Mexico. As a "micro-cactus" (a term for exceptionally small cactus species), it excels in compact cultivation—its 2-inch potted stage perfectly showcases its delicate, sculptural charm, making it a prized addition to specialist succulent collections, mini landscapes, and desktop displays.

In its juvenile 2-inch form, this slow-growing cactus features a squat, rounded stem (often slightly flattened at the top, earning it the genus name Turbinicarpus, meaning "top-shaped fruit") in soft shades of gray-green to blue-green. The stem is covered in small, fleshy, conical (tubercles)—a defining trait of the genus—from which 3–5 short, fine spines emerge: typically white or pale brown, with a subtle translucent quality that softens their appearance. Unlike larger cacti, its spines are non-irritating, adding to its appeal for close-up display.

Come late spring to early summer, mature specimens (even relatively small 2–3 inch plants) produce stunning, disproportionately large flowers. These blooms—2–3 cm in diameter—unfold from the top of the stem, boasting soft pink to pale purple petals with deeper magenta or burgundy stripes radiating from the center.

How to Care for Turbinicarpus beguin

Light: Requires bright, filtered sunlight or gentle direct light to thrive—avoid intense midday sun (especially in hot climates), as its small, tender stem is prone to sunscald. Aim for 4–5 hours of morning or late-afternoon direct light (e.g., east-facing windows in the Northern Hemisphere) or bright indirect light (e.g., behind a sheer curtain on a south-facing window). Insufficient light causes etiolation (stretching) and fades the stem’s color.

Water: Follow a strict "soak-and-dry" routine, critical for its shallow, sensitive root system. For the 2-inch pot (which dries rapidly), water thoroughly only when the soil is completely dry to the touch—typically every 10–14 days during the active growth season (spring–fall). Reduce watering to once every 3–4 weeks in winter (when growth halts), and never let water pool in the pot’s saucer; overwatering leads to fatal root rot, the primary threat to this species.

Temperature: Thrives in moderate temperatures between 65–75°F (18–24°C) during growth. It tolerates brief dips to 32°F (0°C) in winter only if the soil is completely dry—prolonged cold (below 40°F/4°C) or damp cold will damage the stem. Avoid drafty areas (e.g., near doors or AC vents) to prevent temperature shocks.

Soil & Potting: Use an ultra-well-draining mix to mimic its native limestone habitat—blend a standard cactus/succulent mix with 40–50% coarse aggregates (e.g., pumice, crushed limestone, or grit). Choose a 2-inch terracotta pot with multiple drainage holes; terracotta’s porosity wicks excess moisture, and the small size prevents soil from staying soggy. Avoid plastic pots, which retain water longer.

Fertilizer: Feed minimally during the growing season (spring–early fall) with a low-nitrogen, water-soluble cactus fertilizer diluted to 1/4 strength. Apply once every 4–6 weeks—over-fertilizing burns its delicate roots and disrupts slow growth. Discontinue feeding entirely in winter.

Pests & Disease: Rarely infested by pests, but may attract root mealybugs (hiding in soil around roots) or scale (on stem crevices). Treat root mealybugs by gently repotting, rinsing roots with lukewarm water, and replanting in fresh soil; dab scale with isopropyl alcohol. Root rot from overwatering is the main risk—prioritize drainage over frequent watering.

Propagation: Primarily propagated from seeds, as offsets (pups) are extremely rare in this subspecies. Sow seeds in a sterile, well-draining mix, keep at 70–75°F (21–24°C) with consistent moisture (use a humidity dome), and provide bright indirect light. Germination takes 2–4 weeks, and seedlings grow very slowly—reaching 2 inches takes 2–3 years. The 2-inch potted specimens are young adults, not seedlings.

More Information

Primary color: Gray-green to blue-green stem; white or pale brown translucent spines (unstressed state)
Secondary color: Stem develops subtle reddish-brown blushing on tubercle tips; spines deepen to light brown (with optimal sun exposure)
Bloom color: Soft pink to pale purple, with magenta/burgundy central stripes
Product format: 2 inch potted plant
Cold hardiness: USDA Zones 9b–11 (tolerates brief, dry dips to 32°F/0°C; grown indoors year-round in Zones below 9b)
Suitability: Mini succulent arrangements, desktop decor, specialist cactus collections, indoor windowsills, small rock gardens (warm climates)
Propagation: Seeds (primary); rarely offsets (secondary, only in mature specimens)
Special characteristics: Drought-tolerant, slow-growing (micro-cactus), non-irritating spines, showy blooms (relative to size), CITES-listed (ethical cultivation recommended), long-lived with proper care

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!!!