Gymnocalycium denudatum: Care & Characteristics of the Spider Cactus

Spider Cactus

Spider Cactus

Gymnocalycium denudatum (spider cactus), a type of cactus plant from southern Brazil, is a fat, globular cactus that gets its common name from the arrangement of its spines. It has very broad ribs and a slight "chin" beneath the yellowish spines. In very bright light this cactus takes on a brownish cast.

Cactus Image Gallery

Spider cactus (Gymnocalycium denudatum)
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A tiny cousin, Gymnocalycium mihanovichii, has a bright red parasitic form called 'Hibotan' that cannot survive unless it is grafted onto a cactus that provides chlorophyll and produces food for both. Give gymnocalycium bright light, heavy soil with excellent drainage, house temperatures and good air circulation. The many varieties grow easily from seed.

Cactus Profiles

Aeonium Melocactus Agave Mountain Cereus
Alluaudia procera
Nananthus schoonesii
Calibanus hookerii
Rat Tail Cactus
Crassula Rebutia Echeveria Sedum Elephant Bush
Senecio Eulychnia saint-pieana
Spider Cactus
Ferocactus Stapelia Foxtail Asparagus Fern
Tephrocactus Gasteria Torch Cactus
Haageocereus chrysacranthus
Trichodiadema olearea
Holiday Cactus
Yucca Kalanchoe


Related Links:

• Cactus Care
• Light Requirements of Cactus Plants
• Water and Humidity Requirements of Cactus Plants
• Temperature Requirements of Cactus Plants
• Fertilizing Cacti
• Preventing Cacti Pests and Diseases
• Potting Cactus Plants
• Propagating Cacti
• Arranging Cactus Plants
• House Plants
• Gardening