Description
G. striglianum is a small usually solitary cactus. It is related with Gymnocalycium gibbosum but looks quite similar to Gymnocalycium stellatum.
Stem: Globose or flattened-depressed (or occasionally shortly cylindrical) black/purple greyish-brown, blue-green, blackish green, or reddish 3-5(-8) cm tall, 4-8(-10) cm in diameter.
Areoles: Whitish-grey, elongate.
Ribs: 8-12 (up to 20) chinned.
Spines: 3-5, black to brownish up to 15 mm long, that became whitish-grey with a black base as they age.
Flowers: Creamy white with a shade of pink or red up to 5 cm long and 4 cm wide., the blooms are close to the crown, have scales, are large, bell shaped and remain open for several days.
Blooming season: They bloom from spring to fall.
Fruits: Globate or fusiform, grey green.
Origin and Habitat
Mendoza - Argentina (South America)
Cultivation and Propagation
It is a summer grower and pretty easy species, water regularly in summer, keep rather dry in winter, but can handle excessive water to few water, best for half-shade but grow well in full sun and full shade too (but in full sun turns an uneven brownish red colour). Frost Tolerance: Hardy to -12C.
Propagation: Direct sow after last frost.(seldom produces offsets)
