Rebutia minuscula, commonly known as Crown Cactus, is a perennial herbaceous cactus native to the high-altitude mountain regions of northern Argentina and Bolivia. It is the type species of the genus Rebutia and has received the Royal Horticultural Society’s Award of Garden Merit. This small, globular cactus reaches up to 2 inches in diameter and tends to form clusters. It is notable for its vibrant red flowers that bloom profusely around the base of the stems in late spring to early summer, adding a splash of color to the garden. The Crown Cactus has a relatively slow growth rate and is evergreen, maintaining its appearance year-round.

The Crown Cactus is valued for its ease of maintenance and the bright display of its flowers. It is often used in rock gardens, as container plants, or in succulent collections. In cultivation, it requires minimal water, thriving in well-drained soils and preferring full sun to partial shade. Overwatering can lead to root rot, so it is crucial to ensure proper drainage. The species includes cultivars such as ’Krainziana’ with yellow flowers and ’Marsoneri’ with orange flowers, which provide a range of color options for gardeners. While generally disease-free, mealybugs and spider mites can sometimes be a problem. It is not known to be invasive and poses no significant threat when grown outside its native range.CC BY-SA 4.0