Latin name: Tephrocactus geometricus 🌵
Common name: Geometric Prickly Pear (ball joint cactus)
Origin: Northwestern Argentina (Catamarca, La Rioja) — high, arid habitats.
Standout traits: Striking stacks of near-perfect spherical segments in blue-grey to lilac tones with a matte, glaucous “bloom.” Segments detach easily for propagation; overall look is minimalist, sculptural, and highly collectible.
FLOWER DETAILS
Large, papery blooms in late spring to summer, typically white to pale pink with a warm yellow center. Flowers open wide above the globes, creating a delicate contrast to the architectural form.
CARE INSTRUCTIONS
☀️ Light: Full sun to very bright light; acclimate slowly to avoid scorch.
💧 Water: Soak and dry in the growing season; keep nearly dry in winter dormancy. Always empty saucers.
🌡️ Humidity: Low; excellent airflow preferred.
🪴 Soil: Very gritty, mineral mix (pumice/lava rock + coarse sand; minimal organic matter).
🏺 Potting: Unglazed terracotta with wide drainage; stake gently to prevent segment wobble; repot every 2–3 years in spring.
🌱 Growth rate: Slow (about 1–3 new segments / year under strong light).
🐾 Pet friendly: No (spines/glochids can irritate skin and pets).
WHY YOU WILL LOVE IT?
A living design object: serene stacks of spheres that suit modern, minimal interiors.
Compact footprint; ideal for sunny windowsills and curated shelves.
Surprisingly floriferous when happy—big, satiny blooms over tiny globes.
A conversation piece prized by collectors of rare, architectural cacti.
AT ORANGE’S HOME
At Orange’s Home, we deeply care for our plants and provide the best conditions for their growth — from light and watering to nutrition and pest care. Contact us if you’d like to know more about this plant.