Parodia leninghausii - Planet Desert
Lemon Ball Cactus ‘Parodia leninghausii’
Lemon Ball Cactus ‘Parodia leninghausii’
Lemon Ball Cactus ‘Parodia leninghausii’
Lemon Ball Cactus ‘Parodia leninghausii’
Lemon Ball Cactus ‘Parodia leninghausii’
Lemon Ball Cactus ‘Parodia leninghausii’
Lemon Ball Cactus ‘Parodia leninghausii’
Lemon Ball Cactus ‘Parodia leninghausii’
Lemon Ball Cactus ‘Parodia leninghausii’
Lemon Ball Cactus ‘Parodia leninghausii’
Lemon Ball Cactus ‘Parodia leninghausii’
Lemon Ball Cactus ‘Parodia leninghausii’
Lemon Ball Cactus ‘Parodia leninghausii’
Lemon Ball Cactus ‘Parodia leninghausii’
Lemon Ball Cactus ‘Parodia leninghausii’
Lemon Ball Cactus ‘Parodia leninghausii’
Lemon Ball Cactus ‘Parodia leninghausii’
Lemon Ball Cactus ‘Parodia leninghausii’
Lemon Ball Cactus ‘Parodia leninghausii’
Lemon Ball Cactus ‘Parodia leninghausii’
Lemon Ball Cactus ‘Parodia leninghausii’
Lemon Ball Cactus ‘Parodia leninghausii’
Lemon Ball Cactus ‘Parodia leninghausii’
Lemon Ball Cactus ‘Parodia leninghausii’
Lemon Ball Cactus ‘Parodia leninghausii’
Lemon Ball Cactus ‘Parodia leninghausii’
Lemon Ball Cactus ‘Parodia leninghausii’
Lemon Ball Cactus ‘Parodia leninghausii’
Lemon Ball Cactus ‘Parodia leninghausii’
Lemon Ball Cactus ‘Parodia leninghausii’

Introducing the Parodia leninghausii, known as the Lemon Ball Cactus, which is a delightful cactus species that belongs to the Parodia genus. Native to Southern Brazil, it has gained popularity among cactus enthusiasts for its striking appearance and relatively easy-care requirements. 

The Parodia leninghausii has several other common names such as golden ball cactus, yellow tower cactus, or Notocactus leninghausii. It gets its name because of its round, lemon-like shape. It grows at an extremely fast pace and is known to be an easy-to-grow small-ball succulent. 


The Parodia leninghausii can grow up to 4 feet tall and 5 inches wide.

Its bright green stem is covered in distinctive harmless golden spines that give it a vibrant and cheerful look.

Clustering from the base, it is globular at first but becomes a columnar cactus with age.

The flowers of the golden ball cactus bloom in the spring and early summer, with stunning yellow flowers that contrast beautifully with its green body.

These silky yellow flowers emerge from the top of the cactus and add a pop of color to its overall appearance. The blooms are relatively large compared to the size of the cactus, creating a striking visual display.  

The propagation of the Lemon Ball Cactus can be achieved through methods such as seed propagation or offsets. When propagating from offsets, simply remove the offsets from the base of the mature plant and allow them to callus before planting them in a well-draining soil mix. For seed propagation, sow the seeds in a cactus-specific soil mix and provide them with the right conditions for germination, including warmth and adequate moisture. 

Watering Needs 

When watering your Parodia leninghausii, it's essential to allow the soil to dry out completely between waterings. Overwatering can be detrimental to the plant, so it's crucial to follow a "soak and dry" method. This means thoroughly watering the plant until water drains out of the bottom of the pot and then waiting until the soil is completely dry before watering again. 

In the spring and summer, during the active growing season, you can water the Lemon Ball Cactus more frequently, about once every 1-2 weeks, depending on the temperature and humidity levels in your area. 

In contrast, in the fall and winter, during the dormant period, you should reduce watering to once every 3-4 weeks or even less, as the cactus requires less water when it's not actively growing. It's also essential to adjust your watering schedule based on the specific conditions of your garden, such as the type of soil, pot size, and amount of sunlight the cactus receives. 

By following these watering guidelines, you can help your Parodia leninghausii Lemon Ball Cactus thrive and maintain its unique beauty in your garden. 

Light Requirements

When grown indoors, it is essential to place the cactus in a location that receives plenty of bright, indirect sunlight. A south or west-facing window is ideal for indoor Lemon Ball Cacti as they thrive in bright light conditions. If natural light is limited, you can supplement it with a grow light to provide the necessary light intensity for the cactus. When transitioning your Lemon Ball Cactus outdoors, it's crucial to acclimate it gradually to prevent sunburn. Place the cactus in a location where it receives partial sunlight to start, gradually increasing the exposure to full sunlight over a few weeks. 

For outdoor cultivation, your Lemon Ball Cacti thrive in full sun to partial shade for at least 6-8 hours daily for optimal growth. Ensure that the outdoor location has well-draining soil to prevent waterlogging, as excess moisture can be harmful to the cactus. 

By understanding and providing the appropriate light requirements for your Parodia leninghausii Lemon Ball Cactus, both indoors and outdoors, you can help it thrive and maintain its unique appearance in your garden or home. 

Optimal Soil & Fertilizer Needs 

The Parodia leninghausii prefers very airy, porous, nutrient-rich soil with a pH of 6.1- 6.7. Cacti require well-drained soil that dries completely between waterings. Planting them in ordinary soil will result in compacted roots, stunted growth, and most likely root rot.  

Instead, make or buy a well-draining potting mix, or ideally use our specialized cactus potting mix that contains 5 natural substrates and mycorrhizae to promote the development of a strong root system that helps your Parodia cactus to thrive. As an alternative, you can create your own potting mix by combining equal portions of perlite, coarse sand, and good natural potting soil. 

When it comes to fertilizing your ball cactus, you can fertilize it with a diluted, balanced (5-10-5) cactus NPK fertilizer once a year in the spring. It's essential not to over-fertilize, as this can harm the plant. During the fall and winter months, when the cactus is dormant, you should refrain from fertilizing to allow the plant to rest. Always follow the instructions on the fertilizer package and dilute it to half or quarter strength to avoid nutrient buildup in the soil. 

Hardiness Zone & More 

When growing indoors, this Parodia leninghausii cactus generally thrives in temperatures between 65-80°F during the day and prefers slightly cooler temperatures at night. It can tolerate lower temperatures during its dormant period in the fall and winter but should be protected from frost. The Lemon Ball Cacti are adapted to low humidity levels typical of indoor environments, making them well-suited for indoor conditions. 

For outdoor cultivation, your Parodia leninghausii lemon ball cactus is typically hardy in USDA hardiness zones 9-11, which means it can tolerate temperatures down to 20°F. Outdoor Lemon Ball Cacti thrive in hot and dry conditions, so it's important to plant them in well-draining soil and provide adequate airflow to prevent humidity-related issues like rot. 

Ensure that the outdoor location offers protection from excessive rain and frost to avoid damage to the cactus, as it is not frost-tolerant. 

Final Thoughts 

Overall, the Parodia leninghausii Lemon Ball Cactus is a charming cactus species native to South America, known for its round, lemon-like shape, golden spines, and striking yellow flowers. This cactus species typically reaches a mature size of about 4 feet tall and 5 inches wide.

When caring for the Lemon Ball Cactus, provide it with plenty of sunlight, well-draining soil, and infrequent watering to thrive. With its unique features and relatively easy-care requirements, the Lemon Ball Cactus is a delightful addition to any cactus lover's collection. 

Bloom Season Spring, Early summer
Botanical Name Parodia leninghausii
Common Name Lemon ball cactus, Golden ball cactus, Yellow tower cactus
Dormancy Winter
Family Cactaceae
Flower Color Bright yellow
Genus Parodia
Growth Habit Spherical
Growth Rate Fast
Hardiness Zone 9, 10, 11
Mature Size 4 ft. tall, 5 in. wide
Native Area Souther Brazil
Plant Type Cactus
Propagation By seeds, pups
Resistance Extremely drought-tolerant, heat resistant, pests resistant, deer resistant
Soil PH 6.5, Acidic, Neutral
Soil Type Succulents potting mix soil
Special Features Easy to maintain
Sun Exposure Full sun, partial shade
Toxicity Safe for humans, safe for pets
Watering Needs Low

Pests & Common Problems with Parodia leninghausii

The Parodia leninghausii, a resilient column cactus, can be easily maintained but faces challenges. The most common are: 

Overwatering: One of the most common issues with this cactus is overwatering. It's essential to allow the soil to dry out between waterings to prevent root rot. 

Mealybugs: These pests can infest the Lemon Ball Cactus, appearing as white, cottony masses on the plant. To treat, remove them manually or use insecticidal soap. 

Scale Insects: Scale insects can also be a problem for this cactus, appearing as small, waxy bumps on the stems. They can be treated with neem oil or insecticidal soap. 

Root Rot: Overwatering or poorly draining soil can lead to root rot in the Lemon Ball Cactus. Ensure the plant is in well-draining soil to prevent this issue. 

Sunburn: Excessive exposure to intense sunlight can cause sunburn on the cactus, leading to discolored or damaged patches on the skin. Providing some shade during the hottest part of the day can help prevent this. 

Underwatering: While overwatering is a common issue, underwatering can also be a problem. It's important to water the cactus when the top inch of soil is dry to the touch. 

By being mindful of these common pests and problems, you can help keep your Parodia leninghausii Lemon Ball Cactus healthy and thriving. 

Frequently Asked Questions

  • How do you care for Parodia Leninghausii?

    1. Place your lemon ball cactus in a sunny spot where it can receive plenty of bright, indirect sunlight.
    2. A south-facing window is ideal for indoor plants.
    3. Use a well-draining cactus mix to plant your Lemon Ball Cactus. This type of soil will prevent waterlogging and help the roots stay healthy.
    4. Feed your cactus with a diluted cactus NPK fertilizer during the growing season (spring) to promote healthy growth. Avoid fertilizing during the dormant winter months.
    5. Water your cactus sparingly, allowing the soil to dry out completely between waterings. In general, it's better to underwater than overwater to prevent root rot.
    6. Keep your Lemon Ball Cactus in a warm indoor environment. It thrives in temperatures between 65-85°F.
    7. The Parodia leninghausii Lemon Ball Cactus is suitable for outdoor cultivation in USDA hardiness zones 9-11. If you live in a colder climate, it's best to keep it indoors during the winter months to protect it from frost.

  • How often do you water Parodia Leninghausii?

    To water your Parodialeninghausii Lemon Ball Cactus, follow a "soak and dry" method, allowing the soil to dry completely between waterings. Watering during the spring and summer in their active growing season, about once every 1-2 weeks, depends on temperature and humidity levels. In the fall and winter, watering should be reduced to once every 3-4 weeks or less, as the cactus requires less water when not growing. Adjust the watering schedule based on the specific conditions of your garden, such as soil type, pot size, and sunlight exposure. By following these watering guidelines, you can help your cactus thrive and maintain its unique beauty in your garden.

  • How big do lemon ball cacti get?

    The Parodialeninghausii can grow up to 4 feet tall and 5 inches. Its bright green stem is covered in distinctive golden-yellow spines that give it a vibrant and cheerful look. Clustering from the base, they are globular at first but become columnar with age. The Lemon Ball Cactus is known for its spherical shape, making it a visually appealing addition to any cactus collection.

  • How do you propagate lemon ball cactus?

    1. Lemon Ball Cacti often produce offsets, also known as pups or baby cacti, around the base of the main plant. Carefully remove these offsets by gently twisting them off the main plant.
    2. Allow the cut ends of the offsets to dry and callus over for a few days to prevent rotting when planted.
    3. Once the cut ends have callused, plant the offsets in a well-draining cactus mix. Make sure the soil is slightly moist but not overly wet.
    4. Place the newly planted offsets in a bright, indirect light location and water sparingly. It's essential to avoid overwatering during the propagation process to prevent root rot.
    5.  With proper care and attention to watering and light conditions, your propagated Lemon Ball Cactus should establish itself and start growing into a new plant.
     

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Lemon Ball Cactus ‘Parodia leninghausii’

sku: 1354

3 reviews
Regular price$ 8.00
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Height: 9"-12"
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Height: 35" - 40"
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Please note: All Landscape Ready plants that are in a 6-inch pot or larger WILL NOT come with a pot as it will be shipped bare root.

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Please note: Our large plants are many years old, and as a result, they might have minor scaring but will arrive 100% healthy and looking great.

Please note: Our large plants are shipped bare root. They are also many years old, and as a result, they might have minor scaring but will arrive healthy and looking great.

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Detailed description of this plant is below...

If you live in a cold climate and are expecting temperatures below 40 degrees within the next five days after placing your order, we highly recommend adding a heat pack to your order. If you do not order a heat pack, we do not send one with your order.

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Plants that are in 3.5" pots and smaller will be shipped in its pot to prevent any damage to the roots.

Any plant that is 6" and larger WILL NOT come with a pot as it will be shipped bare root.

Depending on the species and season, you will receive a very similar plant to the one in the picture. It may or may not be blooming at the time of your purchase.

We ship via USPS Priority Mail, If you don't get Free Shipping, then we calculate the shipping cost based on the weight and volume of your purchase.

Care instructions are included in every package you order. Please allow us up to 3 business days to process your order. Depending on your location, we will ship the plants on a certain day to avoid transit time during weekends or holidays. If you wish to receive your order on a specific date, or have special instructions, please add a note on your order. If you have any questions or comments, please feel free to contact us at any time.

  • Description
  • Key Plant Features

Introducing the Parodia leninghausii, known as the Lemon Ball Cactus, which is a delightful cactus species that belongs to the Parodia genus. Native to Southern Brazil, it has gained popularity among cactus enthusiasts for its striking appearance and relatively easy-care requirements. 

The Parodia leninghausii has several other common names such as golden ball cactus, yellow tower cactus, or Notocactus leninghausii. It gets its name because of its round, lemon-like shape. It grows at an extremely fast pace and is known to be an easy-to-grow small-ball succulent. 


The Parodia leninghausii can grow up to 4 feet tall and 5 inches wide.

Its bright green stem is covered in distinctive harmless golden spines that give it a vibrant and cheerful look.

Clustering from the base, it is globular at first but becomes a columnar cactus with age.

The flowers of the golden ball cactus bloom in the spring and early summer, with stunning yellow flowers that contrast beautifully with its green body.

These silky yellow flowers emerge from the top of the cactus and add a pop of color to its overall appearance. The blooms are relatively large compared to the size of the cactus, creating a striking visual display.  

The propagation of the Lemon Ball Cactus can be achieved through methods such as seed propagation or offsets. When propagating from offsets, simply remove the offsets from the base of the mature plant and allow them to callus before planting them in a well-draining soil mix. For seed propagation, sow the seeds in a cactus-specific soil mix and provide them with the right conditions for germination, including warmth and adequate moisture. 

Watering Needs 

When watering your Parodia leninghausii, it's essential to allow the soil to dry out completely between waterings. Overwatering can be detrimental to the plant, so it's crucial to follow a "soak and dry" method. This means thoroughly watering the plant until water drains out of the bottom of the pot and then waiting until the soil is completely dry before watering again. 

In the spring and summer, during the active growing season, you can water the Lemon Ball Cactus more frequently, about once every 1-2 weeks, depending on the temperature and humidity levels in your area. 

In contrast, in the fall and winter, during the dormant period, you should reduce watering to once every 3-4 weeks or even less, as the cactus requires less water when it's not actively growing. It's also essential to adjust your watering schedule based on the specific conditions of your garden, such as the type of soil, pot size, and amount of sunlight the cactus receives. 

By following these watering guidelines, you can help your Parodia leninghausii Lemon Ball Cactus thrive and maintain its unique beauty in your garden. 

Light Requirements

When grown indoors, it is essential to place the cactus in a location that receives plenty of bright, indirect sunlight. A south or west-facing window is ideal for indoor Lemon Ball Cacti as they thrive in bright light conditions. If natural light is limited, you can supplement it with a grow light to provide the necessary light intensity for the cactus. When transitioning your Lemon Ball Cactus outdoors, it's crucial to acclimate it gradually to prevent sunburn. Place the cactus in a location where it receives partial sunlight to start, gradually increasing the exposure to full sunlight over a few weeks. 

For outdoor cultivation, your Lemon Ball Cacti thrive in full sun to partial shade for at least 6-8 hours daily for optimal growth. Ensure that the outdoor location has well-draining soil to prevent waterlogging, as excess moisture can be harmful to the cactus. 

By understanding and providing the appropriate light requirements for your Parodia leninghausii Lemon Ball Cactus, both indoors and outdoors, you can help it thrive and maintain its unique appearance in your garden or home. 

Optimal Soil & Fertilizer Needs 

The Parodia leninghausii prefers very airy, porous, nutrient-rich soil with a pH of 6.1- 6.7. Cacti require well-drained soil that dries completely between waterings. Planting them in ordinary soil will result in compacted roots, stunted growth, and most likely root rot.  

Instead, make or buy a well-draining potting mix, or ideally use our specialized cactus potting mix that contains 5 natural substrates and mycorrhizae to promote the development of a strong root system that helps your Parodia cactus to thrive. As an alternative, you can create your own potting mix by combining equal portions of perlite, coarse sand, and good natural potting soil. 

When it comes to fertilizing your ball cactus, you can fertilize it with a diluted, balanced (5-10-5) cactus NPK fertilizer once a year in the spring. It's essential not to over-fertilize, as this can harm the plant. During the fall and winter months, when the cactus is dormant, you should refrain from fertilizing to allow the plant to rest. Always follow the instructions on the fertilizer package and dilute it to half or quarter strength to avoid nutrient buildup in the soil. 

Hardiness Zone & More 

When growing indoors, this Parodia leninghausii cactus generally thrives in temperatures between 65-80°F during the day and prefers slightly cooler temperatures at night. It can tolerate lower temperatures during its dormant period in the fall and winter but should be protected from frost. The Lemon Ball Cacti are adapted to low humidity levels typical of indoor environments, making them well-suited for indoor conditions. 

For outdoor cultivation, your Parodia leninghausii lemon ball cactus is typically hardy in USDA hardiness zones 9-11, which means it can tolerate temperatures down to 20°F. Outdoor Lemon Ball Cacti thrive in hot and dry conditions, so it's important to plant them in well-draining soil and provide adequate airflow to prevent humidity-related issues like rot. 

Ensure that the outdoor location offers protection from excessive rain and frost to avoid damage to the cactus, as it is not frost-tolerant. 

Final Thoughts 

Overall, the Parodia leninghausii Lemon Ball Cactus is a charming cactus species native to South America, known for its round, lemon-like shape, golden spines, and striking yellow flowers. This cactus species typically reaches a mature size of about 4 feet tall and 5 inches wide.

When caring for the Lemon Ball Cactus, provide it with plenty of sunlight, well-draining soil, and infrequent watering to thrive. With its unique features and relatively easy-care requirements, the Lemon Ball Cactus is a delightful addition to any cactus lover's collection. 

Bloom Season Spring, Early summer
Botanical Name Parodia leninghausii
Common Name Lemon ball cactus, Golden ball cactus, Yellow tower cactus
Dormancy Winter
Family Cactaceae
Flower Color Bright yellow
Genus Parodia
Growth Habit Spherical
Growth Rate Fast
Hardiness Zone 9, 10, 11
Mature Size 4 ft. tall, 5 in. wide
Native Area Souther Brazil
Plant Type Cactus
Propagation By seeds, pups
Resistance Extremely drought-tolerant, heat resistant, pests resistant, deer resistant
Soil PH 6.5, Acidic, Neutral
Soil Type Succulents potting mix soil
Special Features Easy to maintain
Sun Exposure Full sun, partial shade
Toxicity Safe for humans, safe for pets
Watering Needs Low

Pests & Common Problems with Parodia leninghausii

The Parodia leninghausii, a resilient column cactus, can be easily maintained but faces challenges. The most common are: 

Overwatering: One of the most common issues with this cactus is overwatering. It's essential to allow the soil to dry out between waterings to prevent root rot. 

Mealybugs: These pests can infest the Lemon Ball Cactus, appearing as white, cottony masses on the plant. To treat, remove them manually or use insecticidal soap. 

Scale Insects: Scale insects can also be a problem for this cactus, appearing as small, waxy bumps on the stems. They can be treated with neem oil or insecticidal soap. 

Root Rot: Overwatering or poorly draining soil can lead to root rot in the Lemon Ball Cactus. Ensure the plant is in well-draining soil to prevent this issue. 

Sunburn: Excessive exposure to intense sunlight can cause sunburn on the cactus, leading to discolored or damaged patches on the skin. Providing some shade during the hottest part of the day can help prevent this. 

Underwatering: While overwatering is a common issue, underwatering can also be a problem. It's important to water the cactus when the top inch of soil is dry to the touch. 

By being mindful of these common pests and problems, you can help keep your Parodia leninghausii Lemon Ball Cactus healthy and thriving. 

Frequently Asked Questions

  • How do you care for Parodia Leninghausii?

    1. Place your lemon ball cactus in a sunny spot where it can receive plenty of bright, indirect sunlight.
    2. A south-facing window is ideal for indoor plants.
    3. Use a well-draining cactus mix to plant your Lemon Ball Cactus. This type of soil will prevent waterlogging and help the roots stay healthy.
    4. Feed your cactus with a diluted cactus NPK fertilizer during the growing season (spring) to promote healthy growth. Avoid fertilizing during the dormant winter months.
    5. Water your cactus sparingly, allowing the soil to dry out completely between waterings. In general, it's better to underwater than overwater to prevent root rot.
    6. Keep your Lemon Ball Cactus in a warm indoor environment. It thrives in temperatures between 65-85°F.
    7. The Parodia leninghausii Lemon Ball Cactus is suitable for outdoor cultivation in USDA hardiness zones 9-11. If you live in a colder climate, it's best to keep it indoors during the winter months to protect it from frost.

  • How often do you water Parodia Leninghausii?

    To water your Parodialeninghausii Lemon Ball Cactus, follow a "soak and dry" method, allowing the soil to dry completely between waterings. Watering during the spring and summer in their active growing season, about once every 1-2 weeks, depends on temperature and humidity levels. In the fall and winter, watering should be reduced to once every 3-4 weeks or less, as the cactus requires less water when not growing. Adjust the watering schedule based on the specific conditions of your garden, such as soil type, pot size, and sunlight exposure. By following these watering guidelines, you can help your cactus thrive and maintain its unique beauty in your garden.

  • How big do lemon ball cacti get?

    The Parodialeninghausii can grow up to 4 feet tall and 5 inches. Its bright green stem is covered in distinctive golden-yellow spines that give it a vibrant and cheerful look. Clustering from the base, they are globular at first but become columnar with age. The Lemon Ball Cactus is known for its spherical shape, making it a visually appealing addition to any cactus collection.

  • How do you propagate lemon ball cactus?

    1. Lemon Ball Cacti often produce offsets, also known as pups or baby cacti, around the base of the main plant. Carefully remove these offsets by gently twisting them off the main plant.
    2. Allow the cut ends of the offsets to dry and callus over for a few days to prevent rotting when planted.
    3. Once the cut ends have callused, plant the offsets in a well-draining cactus mix. Make sure the soil is slightly moist but not overly wet.
    4. Place the newly planted offsets in a bright, indirect light location and water sparingly. It's essential to avoid overwatering during the propagation process to prevent root rot.
    5.  With proper care and attention to watering and light conditions, your propagated Lemon Ball Cactus should establish itself and start growing into a new plant.
     

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