Etymology -The genus is named after botanist Domingo Parodi of Paraguay.Species currently and historically included in the genus Parodia are very popular in cultivation. Many of them are easy to grow, have intriguing stems and spines and flower easily with brightly-colored flowers. This in combination with their relatively small size ensure that nearly all cactus growers will have some representative of this group. While advanced hobbyists may grow many of the various species and subspecies.
By default on this site, genera such as Notocactus and Eriocactus are included under Parodia. This follows the treatment publications that are readily available, such as the "New Cactus Lexicon". For some reason, the treatment of this particular genus is a highly emotional issue to many growers. It seems they would rather die than to ever refer to a Notocactus by the name Parodia.
Plants in this genus are globose or short cylinders that may be solitary or forming clumps. Stems are typically ribbed, but may also be strongly tuberculate. Spines may be thin and few or dense and stiff.
Flowers in all species arise from fuzzy buds, typically with bristles, at the apex. Flowers are cup-shaped and point straight up. In general, the plants that have been affiliated with other genera as mentioned above, have yellow flowers between 1 and 2 inches in diameter. The more strict Parodia species often have orange to red flowers, which may be only 1/4 inch or so in size. However, this is hardly a hard and fast rule and there are exceptions in both cases. The stigma on all species is pronounced and often is a highly contrasting color with long lobes which can be useful for identification. Fruits are fuzzy, sometimes spiny and usually dry, clinging fast to the plant until long after the small black seeds begin to spill out. Seeds tend to vary and is a major taxonomic sticking point.
In the wild, this genus occurs in Eastern South America, covering a wide range of habitats and locations.
Notes for the Genus:
The genus, Notocactus is largely listed here under Parodia by default. For a specific taxa, use the Latin name search page: Name Search.