Frailea pygmaea, also referred to as Frailea pulcherrima, is a perennial globus flat headed cactus in the family Cactaceae. Frailea pygmaea is native to Argentina, Brazil, and Uruguay. This species of Frailea is smaller than the others in its genus as the name pygme implies. It fails to grow above 3 inches in diameter and 2.5 inches in height. The stem’s skin is dark green with spiraling ribs that have yellowish white short spines protruding from brown tufted areoles. Brown wool covered blooms form at the apex and are pale yellow when opened if ever. The blooms are cleistogamous, meaning the flower will fertilize itself even if it does not open. Only on the hottest, sunniest days of summer is this plant known to open its blossoms. Full sun to partial shade with well draining soil is ideal. The plant prefers soil that has a higher amount of organic matter than other cacti. Water adequate, allowing the plant to dry out between waterings. Water more frequently during the summer and mist to avoid shriveling in winter. USDA plant hardiness zone 10b-11b.
Frailea pygmaea seeds require consistent moisture and humidity to germinate, but soil should not be soaking wet. Cloning boxes, ziplock bags, and other containers that retain moisture are ideal to store sown pots. Use a well draining sterilized soil mix with some organic matter. Seeds should be sown on top of potting mixture and lightly covered with sand or the potting mixture, just enough to cover the seeds. Germinating pots should be kept indoors out of extreme light and heat. Ideal germination temperatures range from 75°F to 85°F. Germination typically takes a few days to a couple of weeks to occur. Even with optimal conditions, germination may be slow and sporadic.
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All packages will be shipped with basic customs information such as; HS codes, VAT numbers, and properly labeled contents. Unfortunately, The Garden of Set is unable to provide phytosanitary certificates for orders at this time. It is the buyer’s responsibility to know local laws regarding the import of plants, seeds, and plant products into their country. It is also up to the buyer to provide any other customs forms or information required to import plants into their country. If packages get stopped by customs, The Garden of Set will not be able to provide a refund for the purchase. Most of the time packages make it to their destinations just fine, this is for the small minority of packages that get stopped without having all the proper customs information required by the country of import. Purchase at your own discretion.