Water
Water thoroughly when the soil is completely dry. Avoid overwatering, as this can lead to root rot. Reduce watering significantly during the dormant winter period. Ensure good drainage in the pot to prevent waterlogging.
Also known as Fraelia Cactus · Isaka Taamara (ఇసక తామర)
Frailea pumila is a tiny, spherical cactus native to South America. It features small, inconspicuous flowers and is prized by collectors for its miniature size.
At-a-glance light, water, soil, and growing conditions from plant data
Bright, indirect sunlight.
75% intensity
Protect from intense direct sun, which can scorch.
Allow soil to dry out completely between waterings.
50% intensity
Reduce watering in winter.
Sandy, Well-drained
50% intensity
Prefers warm temperatures during the growing season.
50% intensity
Tolerates cooler temperatures in winter dormancy.
Light feeding during growing season.
25% intensity
Use diluted cactus fertilizer.
Safety information from plant toxicity data
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Toxic for humans | No 0/5 intensity |
| Toxic for pets | No 0/5 intensity |
| Edible | No |
None
Key traits and growing stats from plant data
Watering, pruning, propagation, and repotting details from plant data
Water thoroughly when the soil is completely dry. Avoid overwatering, as this can lead to root rot. Reduce watering significantly during the dormant winter period. Ensure good drainage in the pot to prevent waterlogging.
Pruning is generally not necessary for Frailea pumila. If any parts become damaged or diseased, carefully remove them with a sterile blade. The plant naturally maintains a compact form, so shaping is not a concern.
Propagation is typically done by seed. Sow seeds in a well-draining cactus mix and keep them warm and lightly moist.
It can also be propagated by offsets, if the plant produces them, which can be carefully detached and potted.
Repot Frailea pumila every 2-3 years or when it outgrows its current pot. Use a well-draining cactus or succulent potting mix. Repotting is best done in the spring before the active growing season begins.
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Monthly activity intensity for bloom and fruit across both hemispheres.
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Photos of Frailea Pumila (Frailea pumila)
Where Frailea Pumila (Frailea pumila) is found

Density
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Common names and botanical synonyms
Botanical classification
| Rank | Name |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Division | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Caryophyllales |
| Family | Cactaceae |
| Genus | Frailea |
| Species | Frailea pumila |
Similar in genus Frailea
Answers based on plant encyclopedia data