Frailea cataphracta is a small, globular cactus native to South America, known for its distinctive ribbed stem and often solitary, rarely branching habit.
At-a-glance light, water, soil, and growing conditions from plant data
Bright, indirect sunlight.
75% intensity
Prefers several hours of bright light daily. Can tolerate some direct sun, but intense afternoon sun may scorch it.
Allow soil to dry out completely between waterings.
25% intensity
Prefers infrequent, thorough watering. Avoid overwatering, especially in winter.
Cactus mix, Sandy, Well-draining
50% intensity
Warm to moderate.
50% intensity
Ideal temperatures range from 20-27°C during the growing season. Can tolerate cooler temperatures (10-15°C) in winter dormancy.
Infrequent feeding.
25% intensity
Feed with a diluted cactus fertilizer once during the spring and summer growing season.
Key traits and growing stats from plant data
Watering, pruning, propagation, and repotting details from plant data
Allow the soil to dry out completely between waterings. In its native arid environment, Frailea cataphracta prefers infrequent but thorough watering.
Overwatering is a common cause of root rot, so err on the side of caution, especially during its dormant period.
Pruning is generally not required for Frailea cataphracta, as it is a slow-growing, compact cactus. If any damaged or dead parts appear, they can be carefully removed with sterile shears to maintain the plant's health and aesthetic appeal.
Propagation is typically done through seed. Sow seeds in a well-draining cactus mix and keep them warm and slightly moist.
It can also be propagated by offsets, carefully separating them from the parent plant and allowing them to callus before planting.
Repot Frailea cataphracta every 2-3 years, or when it outgrows its current container. Use a well-draining cactus or succulent potting mix.
Choose a pot that is only slightly larger than the current one to avoid overwatering issues. Repot in spring.
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Monthly activity intensity for bloom and fruit across both hemispheres.
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Photos of Frailea Cataphracta (Frailea cataphracta)
Common names and botanical synonyms
Botanical classification
| Rank | Name |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Division | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Caryophyllales |
| Family | Cactaceae |
| Genus | Frailea |
| Species | Frailea cataphracta |
Similar in genus Frailea
Answers based on plant encyclopedia data
