Rebutia narvaecense Light Pink with Dark Pink Flowers

After the recent incorporation of the genera Aylostera, Mediolobivia, Rebutia, Sulcorebutia, and Weingartia into the genus Rebutia, there are now around 60 species of cactus native to the eastern side of the Andes Mountains in Bolivia and Northern Argentina. They are generally small globular cacti, 4 inches in diameter or generally less (10 cm). Many species form large clusters. The genus Rebutia is named after P. Rebut, French cactus dealer and expert from the 19th century. Rebutias bloom easily and have relatively large daytime flowers. Flowers are generally yellow to red, although some species have white ones. They come from the lower part of the stem. Optimal growing conditions vary. Here the old names are quite useful since they give some ideas of what to expect. All the species need a gritty, well drained, slightly acidic cactus soil. They also need strong light, although generally not too much direct sunlight. They need good watering in summer, but you should allow the soil mixture to dry out between watering.