Parodia scopa - 2 inch

Parodia scopa, commonly known as the Silver Ball Cactus, is a small, clustering species native to Brazil, Uruguay, and northern Argentina. It forms dense clumps of semi-columnar stems covered in soft white and reddish-brown spines, giving it a woolly appearance. Reaching up to 18 inches in height and 3-4 inches in diameter, it thrives in well-drained soil with bright light and good airflow. In late spring to summer, it produces bright yellow flowers arranged in a circular pattern near the stem tops, followed by woolly, bristled seed pods. This species was previously classified under multiple genera before being placed in Parodia. It prefers full sun to partial shade and requires moderate watering during the growing season, with reduced moisture in winter to prevent rot. Best suited for USDA Zone 10a, it is sensitive to frost and should be kept above 40°F, making container cultivation ideal in colder regions. This cactus is popular in rock gardens, xeriscapes, and as an indoor plant, where its silvery spines and vibrant flowers provide year-round visual interest.