Description
Young, this cactus is a small ball, 2 to 4 cm in diameter, quite flat, at the depressed vertex. It has many spiral ribs, not very prominent, hidden by lines of areolas from orange to reddish, surrounded by white, tiny and silver spines; This cactus doesn't bite. Over time, the ball takes some height, then produces rejections at the base. In the long run, Rebutia heliosa becomes a pile of small balls.
The flowers of about 4 cm wide are quite numerous and grow at the base or half height of each ball. They are bright orange, sometimes red. They are able to self-fertilize and produce a spherical fruit of 2 to 5 mm in diameter, which when dried contains many small black seeds.
Scientific Name
Rebutia Heliosa Rausch
Scientific Classification
Family: Cactaceae
Subfamily: Cactoideae
Tribe: Trichocereeae
Genus: Rebutia
USDA hardiness zones 9b to 11b: from 25 °F (−3.9 °C) to 50 °F (+10 °C).
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How to Grow and Care
If you can grow cacti and succulents successfully, you can likely grow the popular Rebutias without too much trouble. Their water and light requirements are fairly typical for many cacti species, including a cooling period in the winter to promote better blooming.
Growing Conditions
Light: Rebutia thrives in bright light and range of conditions. Many species can be grown in partial shade to full sun. However, as these are mountain species, they do not appreciate high temperatures, which should be avoided.
Water: Throughout the growing season (spring and summer) let the potting soil almost completely dry out between waterings, then water thoroughly. In winter, cut back watering.
Soil: A rich, fast-draining cactus mix is ideal.
Fertilizer: During the growing season, fertilize with a cacti fertilizer mix. Suspend feeding during the dormant winter period.
Propagation
Rebutia cacti can be propagated easily from offsets, which readily in clusters around the base of the mother plant. Once your plant has gained a decent size and has sent out several offsets, carefully remove the offset and allow the cut to dry on a paper towel for a few days. Depending on the size of the cut area, a callous will form over the cut surface. Once the callous has formed, place the new plant in a pot with a potting soil mixture and keep in a warm place until new roots emerge. Once the plant is established, repot it into a regular container... - Learn more at HOW TO GROW AND CARE REBUTIA
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