Escobaria missouriensis var. compacta – Missouri Foxtail Cactus, miniature frost-hardy cactus

Escobaria missouriensis var. compacta, commonly known as Missouri Foxtail Cactus, is a small cactus native to the central regions of the United States. It is appreciated for its globular shape, fine, symmetrically arranged spines, and large flowers in shades ranging from pale yellow to yellow-green, which appear in spring or early summer.

Unlike most collectible cacti, this species is remarkable for its excellent resistance to low temperatures, making it suitable for rock gardens, xeriscape gardens, or cultivation in containers placed outdoors.

🌿 Botanical characteristics:

• Complete name: Escobaria missouriensis var. compacta

• Common name: Missouri Foxtail Cactus

• Family: Cactaceae

• Plant type: perennial succulent cactus

• Globular to short cylindrical growth habit

• Fine, whitish spines arranged uniformly

• Pale yellow to yellow-green flowers

• May produce small, reddish fruits on mature plants

• Slow growth

• Mature height: approximately 8-15 cm

• Mature diameter: approximately 8-12 cm

• Frost resistance: down to approximately -25°C, provided it is grown in a very well-drained substrate

🌞 Growing conditions:

• Light: prefers direct sunlight and very bright locations.

• Substrate: very well-drained, mineral-based, and suitable for cacti and succulents.

• Watering: limited; water only after the substrate has dried out completely.

• Temperature: tolerates low temperatures very well, but requires dry substrate during winter.

• Fertilization: occasionally in spring and summer, using a fertilizer for cacti.

🌱 Secret Garden recommendation:

👉 For healthy growth and a strong root system, we recommend Secret Garden Professional Substrate for Cacti, Succulents and Adenium – SG MIX, formulated for excellent drainage and optimal root aeration.

➡️ View the product: https://secretgarden.ro/products/substrat-cactusi-suculente-adenium

✨ What makes it special:

• one of the most cold-hardy cactus species;

• spectacular flowering, with large flowers relative to the plant’s size;

• compact growth habit, ideal for collections and rock gardens;

• requires very little maintenance;

• suitable for both container cultivation and xeriscape gardens.

📌 Note: Following handling, transportation, or adaptation to new environmental conditions, the cactus may develop minor cosmetic imperfections or superficial scars, without affecting the plant’s health or growth.

Height including pot: approx. 6 cm

The plant is sold without flowers.