Parodia Scopa

Description

Parodia Scopa, also known as Notocactus scopa, is a cactus plant native to South America. It belongs to the Cactaceae family and is a popular ornamental plant due to its bright yellow flowers that bloom in spring and summer. This cactus plant grows up to 20 cm tall and 15 cm wide, with a globular shape and numerous small ribs. Its spines are yellow and brown, and its flowers are funnel-shaped and about 3 cm in diameter.

Taxonomic Information

Appearance

Parodia Scopa has a unique appearance that makes it a popular choice for indoor and outdoor gardening. Its globular shape and small ribs give it a bumpy texture, and its yellow and brown spines are thin and sharp. The plant’s funnel-shaped flowers are bright yellow and bloom in spring and summer, and its fruit is small and red. This cactus plant has a slow growth rate and can take up to 10 years to reach its full size.

Care Guide

To care for Parodia Scopa, it is important to provide the right environment and conditions for the plant to thrive. Here are some care tips:

• Water: Water the plant thoroughly once a week during the growing season (spring and summer) and reduce watering in the winter. Avoid overwatering, as this can cause root rot.
• Fertilization: Fertilize the plant once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer. Do not fertilize in the winter.
• Soil: Use a well-draining soil mix, such as cactus soil, to prevent waterlogging and root rot.
• Sunlight: Parodia Scopa prefers bright, indirect sunlight and can tolerate some direct sunlight. Avoid placing the plant in full sun, as this can scorch the leaves.
• Hardiness Zones: Parodia Scopa is hardy in USDA Zones 9-11.

Common Pests & Diseases

Like all plants, Parodia Scopa is susceptible to pests and diseases. Here are some common ones to watch out for:

• Mealybugs: These small, white insects feed on the plant’s sap and can cause stunted growth and yellowing leaves.
• Spider mites: These tiny pests spin webs and suck the plant’s sap, causing brown spots and leaf drop.
• Root rot: Overwatering or poorly draining soil can cause root rot, which can lead to wilting and yellowing leaves.
• Powdery mildew: This fungal disease appears as a white, powdery coating on the plant’s leaves and can cause them to curl and die.

Habitat

Parodia Scopa is native to Argentina, Brazil, Paraguay, and Uruguay, where it grows in rocky areas and grasslands. The plant is adapted to hot and dry conditions and can tolerate drought and high temperatures. In its natural habitat, Parodia Scopa is pollinated by bees and other insects.

Question and Answer

Q: Can Parodia Scopa grow in a small pot?
A: Yes, Parodia Scopa has a small root system and can grow in a small pot.Q: How often should I fertilize Parodia Scopa?
A: Fertilize the plant once a month during the growing season (spring and summer) with a balanced fertilizer.Q: Does Parodia Scopa need direct sunlight?
A: Parodia Scopa prefers bright, indirect sunlight and can tolerate some direct sunlight. Avoid placing the plant in full sun, as this can scorch the leaves.Q: How often should I water Parodia Scopa?
A: Water the plant thoroughly once a week during the growing season (spring and summer) and reduce watering in the winter.

Related Plants

Here are some related plants to Parodia Scopa:

• Parodia leninghausii
• Parodia ottonis
• Parodia mammulosa
• Parodia haselbergii

References

• “Parodia Scopa.” Cactus Art Nursery. Accessed September 14, 2021. https://www.cactus-art.biz/schede/PARODIA/Parodia_scopa/Parodia_scopa/Parodia_scopa.htm
• “Parodia Scopa.” World of Succulents. Accessed September 14, 2021. https://worldofsucculents.com/parodia-scopa-notocactus-scopa/
• “Notocactus scopa.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed September 14, 2021. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=286793&isprofile=0&basic=notocactus%20scopa