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Description
Mammillaria Grahamii, commonly known as Graham’s Nipple Cactus, is a small cactus with a cylindrical or flattened stem that grows up to 5 inches in height and 3 inches in diameter. It belongs to the Cactaceae family and is native to the Sonoran Desert in Arizona, Mexico, and California. The cactus produces small pink or white flowers that bloom in the summer and attract pollinators like bees and butterflies.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Caryophyllales |
| Family | Cactaceae |
| Genus | Mammillaria |
Appearance
The stem of Mammillaria Grahamii is covered with small, white, and woolly tubercles. Each tubercle has a central spine and several radial spines that are grayish-white in color. The stem is green when young and turns brown as it ages. The cactus produces small flowers that are pink or white in color and bloom in the summer. The flowers are followed by red or green fruits that contain small black seeds.
Care Guide
Mammillaria Grahamii is a hardy and low-maintenance cactus that requires little care. Here are some tips to help you take care of your Graham’s Nipple Cactus:
- Water: Water your cactus once a week during the growing season (spring and summer) and reduce watering in the winter. Make sure the soil is completely dry before watering again.
- Fertilization: Fertilize your cactus once a month during the growing season with a cactus fertilizer. Follow the instructions on the package for the amount and frequency of application.
- Soil: Use a well-draining soil mix that is specifically formulated for cacti and succulents. Avoid using regular potting soil as it retains too much moisture.
- Sunlight: Place your cactus in a bright location with direct sunlight for at least 6 hours a day. Avoid placing it in a location with too much shade or too little light.
- Hardiness Zones: Mammillaria Grahamii is hardy in USDA zones 9a to 11b. If you live in a colder climate, make sure to protect your cactus from frost and freezing temperatures.
Common Pests & Diseases
Mammillaria Grahamii is susceptible to pests like mealybugs, spider mites, and scale insects. To prevent infestation, keep your cactus clean and free from dust and debris. If you notice any signs of infestation, treat your cactus with insecticidal soap or neem oil. The cactus is also prone to diseases like root rot and fungal infections. To prevent these diseases, make sure to use a well-draining soil mix and avoid overwatering your cactus.
Habitat
Mammillaria Grahamii is native to the Sonoran Desert in Arizona, Mexico, and California. It grows in rocky areas and sandy soils in desert scrub and chaparral habitats. The cactus is adapted to the hot and dry climate of its habitat and can survive long periods of drought.
Question and Answer
Q: How often should I water my Mammillaria Grahamii?
A: Water your cactus once a week during the growing season (spring and summer) and reduce watering in the winter. Make sure the soil is completely dry before watering again.
Q: What should I do if my Mammillaria Grahamii gets infested with pests?
A: Treat your cactus with insecticidal soap or neem oil to get rid of pests like mealybugs, spider mites, and scale insects. Keep your cactus clean and free from dust and debris to prevent infestation.
Q: What is the hardiness zone for Mammillaria Grahamii?
A: Mammillaria Grahamii is hardy in USDA zones 9a to 11b.
Q: What kind of soil should I use for my Mammillaria Grahamii?
A: Use a well-draining soil mix that is specifically formulated for cacti and succulents. Avoid using regular potting soil as it retains too much moisture.
Related Plants
- Mammillaria Elongata
- Mammillaria Echinus
- Mammillaria Prolifera
- Mammillaria Gracilis
References
- Anderson, E. F. (2001). The Cactus Family. Timber Press.
- Benson, L. (1982). The Cacti of the United States and Canada. Stanford University Press.
- Cullman, W., Gotz, E. & Groner, G. (1984). The Encyclopedia of Cacti. Portland House.
