Golden Crown Cactus Rebutia aureiflora
ABOUT
Rebutia aureiflora, commonly known as the Golden Crown Cactus, has a striking appearance characterized by its dense clusters of spherical or slightly elongated green bodies. These bodies often have a plush appearance due to their covering of numerous white, yellow, or brownish spines that provide a contrast to the green flesh underneath. The spines are arranged radially, radiating outwards like a sunburst, which gives the plant its golden crown appearance when viewed from above. The most captivating feature of the Golden Crown Cactus is its vibrant flowers that bloom in a ring near the top of the bodies. These blossoms are usually a vivid yellow or orange color, suggesting the aureate hue referenced in its name. The flowers are funnel-shaped and can be quite showy with their bright colors set against the green and white of the body with spines. Adding to its charm, this plant will often produce offsets, leading to a clump of multiple bodies creating a fuller, cushion-like colony that can be quite delightful to behold. Overall, the Golden Crown Cactus has a plump, rounded shape that, along with its sparkling spines and vivid blooms, makes it a favorite among cactus enthusiasts and a beautiful addition to any collection.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Cactaceae.
Synonyms
Golden Crown Cactus, Orange Crown Cactus, Yellow Flower Rebutia.
Common names
Rebutia aureiflora.
ToxicityTo humans
Rebutia aureiflora, commonly known as the Crown Cactus, is not known to be toxic to humans. There are no recognized symptoms of poisoning from this plant, as it is generally considered safe and is not commonly associated with adverse effects upon ingestion. However, it's always recommended to exercise caution and not consume plants that are not verified as edible, and to keep all plants out of the reach of children who might accidentally ingest them.
To pets
Crown Cactus, the common name for Rebutia aureiflora, is not known to be toxic to pets, such as cats or dogs. There are no common symptoms of poisoning associated with this plant for pets. While it is not noted for being poisonous, it's still advisable to prevent pets from ingesting plants, as individual animals may have different sensitivities or allergic reactions.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Evergreen
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Yellow
Height
0 feet 2 inches (5 cm)
Spread
0 feet 2 inches (5 cm)
Plant type
Cactus
Hardiness zones
10
Native area
Bolivia
Benefits
General Benefits- Ornamental Appeal: Rebutia aureiflora, commonly known as the Golden Crown Cactus, is prized for its vibrant and showy flowers that are quite attractive in ornamental gardens or as houseplants.
- Low Maintenance: As a cacti species, it requires minimal care, making it an excellent choice for those with busy lifestyles or for beginner gardeners.
- Drought Tolerance: Native to arid environments, this plant is highly drought resistant, conserving water and thriving in dry conditions.
- Compact Size: Its small size makes it ideal for smaller spaces, terrariums, or as part of a mixed cacti and succulent collection.
- Propagation Ease: Rebutia aureiflora can be easily propagated from offsets, allowing gardeners to expand their collection or share with others.
- Long Blooming Period: It has a long flowering season, providing extended periods of visual interest compared to many other plants.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Art and Photography Subjects: Due to their vibrant flowers and attractive form, Rebutia aureiflora, commonly known as Goldflower Cactus, are often used as subjects in botanical art and macro photography.
- Education and Research: Goldflower Cactus can be used in educational settings like schools and botanical gardens to teach about plant adaptation, particularly how certain plants evolve to thrive in arid environments.
- Horticultural Therapy: Interacting with and caring for Goldflower Cactus can be utilized in horticultural therapy programs to improve mental health and cognitive function.
- Collectibles: The various morphologies and hybrids of Goldflower Cactus make them attractive collectibles for cactus enthusiasts.
- Gifts: Small and long-living, Goldflower Cactus can be given as a gift that symbolizes endurance and the flourishing of friendship or love over time.
- Interior Decorating: Due to its compact size, the Goldflower Cactus can be used to add a pop of color and life to small spaces in homes or offices.
- Miniature Gardens: Because of their small size, Goldflower Cactus are suitable for creating miniature gardens or fairy gardens, offering a desert-like landscape on a small scale.
- Feng Shui: Goldflower Cactus can be incorporated into Feng Shui practice where spiny plants are believed to provide protective energy when placed in certain areas of the home.
- Sustainable Packaging: Dead and dried parts of the cactus can be explored as a material for creating sustainable packaging solutions.
- Seasonal Decor: Goldflower Cactus, with their vibrant spring blooms, can be used as part of seasonal tablescapes or festive decorations.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Crown Cactus is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Crown Cactus is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Resilience: Rebutia aureiflora, commonly known as 'Golden Crown Cactus', is symbolic of resilience owing to its ability to thrive in harsh, arid environments where other plants might perish.
- Beauty: The 'Golden Crown Cactus' symbolizes beauty, as it produces vibrant, eye-catching flowers that contrast with its spiny, rugged exterior.
- Self-sufficiency: This cactus represents self-sufficiency because it is well-adapted to store water and nutrients, requiring little from the outside to sustain itself.
- Endurance: Endurance is another key aspect of its symbolism, as the 'Golden Crown Cactus' can live for many years, withstanding the test of time.
- Persistence: The plant's ability to constantly grow and bloom in cycles is seen as a symbol of persistence, facing recurring challenges with renewed strength.
WaterThe Golden Crown cactus should be watered thoroughly, allowing the water to run through the drainage holes to ensure the roots are moistened, typically once every 1-2 weeks during the active growing season in spring and summer. The amount of water required can range from 2 to 4 ounces each watering depending on the size of the pot. In the fall and winter, reduce watering to once a month or less, as the cactus enters a dormancy period. Always check that the top inch of soil is dry before watering again to prevent overwatering and root rot. Do not let the plant sit in water.
LightThe Golden Crown cactus thrives in bright, indirect light and should be placed in a spot where it can receive plenty of light without being exposed to the harsh midday sun. An east or west-facing window is often ideal, providing enough light for the cactus to grow but not so intense that it causes sunburn. If you live in a particularly hot climate, consider providing afternoon shade to protect the plant.
TemperatureThe ideal temperature range for the Golden Crown cactus is between 60°F and 80°F. It's a hardy plant that can survive temperatures as low as 50°F but should not be exposed to freezing conditions. High temperatures above 90°F should be avoided. Maintaining a consistent temperature within the preferred range will promote healthy growth.
PruningPruning the Golden Crown cactus is not typically required due to its compact growth habit. However, if necessary, remove any dead or damaged spines using tweezers or a soft brush to keep the cactus looking its best. Pruning, if done, should be carried out after the blooming period to minimize stress on the plant.
CleaningAs needed
SoilOrange Crown Cactus prefers a well-draining soil mix consisting of equal parts potting soil, coarse sand, and perlite or pumice. Maintain a soil pH around 6.0 to 7.5 for optimal growth.
RepottingOrange Crown Cactus should be repotted every 2 to 3 years to refresh the soil and to accommodate the plant’s growth.
Humidity & MistingOrange Crown Cactus thrives best in low humidity conditions, typical of its native arid habitats.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Provide bright light, well-draining soil, and minimal water.
Outdoor
Needs full sun, protection from frost, and excellent drainage.
Hardiness zone
9-11 USDA.
Life cycleThe Golden Crown Cactus (Rebutia aureiflora) begins its life cycle as a seed, germinating in well-draining soil with warm temperatures and indirect light. Seedlings develop into juvenile plants, sporting small, globular, green bodies with dense spines. As the plant matures, it grows offsets or "pups", forming a clump of multiple individual globular bodies. The adult cacti reach flowering maturity, often producing vibrant orange to yellow flowers from the crown in late spring to early summer. After pollination, which is frequently facilitated by bees or other insects, the flowers develop into small, spherical fruit containing seeds, thus completing the reproductive cycle. Under optimal conditions, the Golden Crown Cactus can live for several decades, repeating its flowering and seeding annually.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-Early Summer
Rebutia aureiflora, commonly known as Golden Crown cactus, is typically propagated through the separation of offsets, which is the most popular method. The best time to propagate Golden Crown cactus is during the late spring to early summer when the plant is actively growing. To propagate by offsets, gently twist and pull an offset from the parent plant, making sure to get a complete section including roots if possible. Allow the offset to dry for a couple of days to form a callus over the cut surface; this helps prevent rotting when planted. Then, plant the offset in a cactus potting mix, watering lightly until roots establish. It is important to provide bright, indirect light and avoid overwatering during this time.
