Rebutia karinziana var. inermis (syn. Rebutia pygmaea)

Rebutia karinziana var. inermis is a diminutive, spineless cactus native to the high-altitude regions of Bolivia. Favoured by collectors for its compact size and prolific flowering, this variety is a naturally occurring form distinguished by its lack of spines, making it a gentler and more accessible species for close handling. It produces vibrant clusters of blooms, often covering the plant’s surface in spring and early summer.

Distinctive Features

• Spineless stems: Unlike the typical form, this variant features smooth, hairless tubercles that give the body a soft appearance.
• Profuse flowering: Produces bright, funnel-shaped blooms—commonly in shades of pink to violet—that appear en masse from the areoles.
• Compact habit: Forms small clumps of rounded stems rarely exceeding a few centimetres in diameter, ideal for pot culture or alpine troughs.

Care Tips

• Light: Prefers bright, indirect light or morning sun; protect from intense afternoon exposure to avoid scorch.
• Water: Water sparingly during active growth, allowing soil to dry between applications; keep dry in winter.
• Humidity: Thrives in low humidity environments; avoid overly damp conditions.
• Media: Use a sharply draining cactus mix, ideally with added grit or perlite.
• Temperature: Best grown between 10–25°C; tolerate cooler temperatures if kept dry.
• Fertiliser: Apply diluted cactus fertiliser monthly during spring and summer only.
• Repotting: Repot every 2–3 years in early spring to refresh the medium and check for offsets.