Rebutia brunescens - BROWN REBUTIA
Rebutia is a genus of small, easy-to-grow cactus plants that are beloved by cactus enthusiasts for their stunning blooms and compact, clumping growth habit. These compact cacti produce vibrant flowers that emerge from the sides of the plant, often in shades of red, orange, pink, or yellow. Despite the size of the cactus, the flowers are impressively large, making them a popular choice for adding bursts of color to small spaces.
Details
Common Names: Rebutia brunescens, Brown Rebutia
Name Meaning:
- Rebutia: Named after Pierre Rebut (1827-1902), a French botanist who specialized in cacti.
- brunescens: Latin "becoming brown" or "brownish," describing the plant's distinctive brown spines.
Native Range: South America (rocky habitats in the Andean mountains of Bolivia and Argentina).
Plant Family: Cactaceae (cacti)
Grow Zone (Hardiness): 9a - 11b (-7°F) Find my zone
Bloom: In late spring, plant produces vermilion, crimson, or red flowers followed by small, round seed capsules. (1)
Light: Full sun/Bright indirect light (2)
Soil: Well-draining
Water: Low (3)
Growth Rate/Habit: Slow/Clumping
Mature Size: 4 in. tall x 2.5 in. wide (clump can spread to 6 in.)
SOLD AS A BARE ROOT SPECIMEN, APPROX. 3 INCHES TALL.
We recommend planting this on our Cactus/Succulent Soil.
- Rebutia species are often self-fertile, meaning they can set seeds without needing a second plant for cross-pollination.
- Extreme light can encourage flowering and dense spines, but direct, intense sun can cause scorch, so provide some afternoon shade in very hot climates.
- Drastically reduce watering in the fall and stop almost completely in the winter, only giving a light watering if the cactus starts to shrivel. In general, avoid overwatering; this is the most common cause of rot, which can kill the plant.

