Origin
The Gymnocalycium mihanovichii Japan mix, also known as the Japanese rainbow cactus, originates from South America. The genus Gymnocalycium comprises around seventy different species, mainly indigenous to Paraguay, Argentina, Uruguay, Brazil, and Bolivia.
Characteristics
The Gymnocalycium mihanovichii Japan mix is a small, slow-growing cactus known for its remarkable colour variation. The flowers are red, pinkish-red, orange, or yellow, approximately 3-5 cm long and appear in late spring and early summer. The plant grows noticeably wide for a cactus, with the trunk often uncovered by spines. The surface of the plant is divided into flat or curved segments, with areoles also distributed across the plant.
Care
The Gymnocalycium mihanovichii Japan mix prefers light, but not direct sunlight for optimal growth. They can tolerate high temperatures, but will need protection against extreme cold in the winter. Watering should be moderate. During the spring and summer months, regular watering is needed, while watering is reduced in the winter months. These cacti require well-draining soil to prevent their roots from sitting in water, which could lead to root rot.