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Description
Mammillaria Meiacantha, commonly known as the Pincushion Cactus, is a species of cactus that is native to Mexico. It is a small, slow-growing plant that is known for its attractive appearance and ease of care. The plant has a rounded, ball-like shape and is covered in clusters of spines that range in color from white to yellowish-brown. It blooms in late spring to early summer, producing small, white or pink flowers that are followed by edible red fruit. Mammillaria Meiacantha is a popular choice for indoor gardening and is often used in terrariums and as part of cactus gardens.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Caryophyllales |
| Family | Cactaceae |
| Genus | Mammillaria |
Appearance
Mammillaria Meiacantha is a small cactus that typically grows to be around 3 inches in diameter and 2 inches tall. It has a rounded, ball-like shape and is covered in clusters of spines that range in color from white to yellowish-brown. The spines are arranged in a radial pattern around the plant and can grow up to 0.5 inches long. The cactus has a green, fleshy stem that is covered in small bumps or tubercles. In late spring to early summer, Mammillaria Meiacantha produces small, white or pink flowers that grow out of the top of the plant. The flowers are followed by edible red fruit that is around 0.5 inches in diameter.
Care Guide
Mammillaria Meiacantha is a relatively low-maintenance plant that is easy to care for. Here are some tips for keeping your Pincushion Cactus healthy:- Water: Mammillaria Meiacantha is a desert plant and does not require much water. Water it sparingly, allowing the soil to dry out completely between waterings.- Fertilization: Feed your cactus with a cactus-specific fertilizer once a month during the growing season (spring and summer).- Soil: Use a well-draining soil mix specifically designed for cacti and succulents.- Sunlight: Mammillaria Meiacantha requires bright, indirect sunlight. Place it near a south-facing window where it will receive plenty of light but not direct sunlight.- Hardiness Zones: Mammillaria Meiacantha is hardy in USDA zones 9-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Mammillaria Meiacantha is relatively pest and disease resistant, but it can still be affected by the following:- Mealybugs: These small, white insects can be found on the stem and leaves of the plant. They can be removed with a cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol.- Root rot: Overwatering can cause the roots of the plant to rot. If you notice the stem becoming soft and mushy, stop watering immediately and allow the soil to dry out completely.- Spider mites: These tiny pests can be found on the underside of the leaves and can cause yellowing and browning of the foliage. They can be removed with a blast of water or a natural insecticide.
Habitat
Mammillaria Meiacantha is native to Mexico and can be found growing in rocky, arid areas. It is often found growing in the shade of larger rocks or other plants, where it is protected from direct sunlight.
Question and Answer
1. Q: How often should I water my Mammillaria Meiacantha?A: Water your Pincushion Cactus sparingly, allowing the soil to dry out completely between waterings.2. Q: Can I grow Mammillaria Meiacantha outdoors?A: Yes, as long as you live in USDA zones 9-11 and provide the plant with well-draining soil and plenty of sunlight.3. Q: How do I fertilize my Mammillaria Meiacantha?A: Use a cactus-specific fertilizer once a month during the growing season (spring and summer).4. Q: What should I do if I notice my cactus developing root rot?A: Stop watering immediately and allow the soil to dry out completely. You may need to repot the plant in fresh, well-draining soil.
Related Plants
– Mammillaria Gracilis- Mammillaria Elongata- Mammillaria Spinosissima- Mammillaria Plumosa
References
– “Mammillaria Meiacantha.” World of Succulents. Accessed May 10, 2021. https://worldofsucculents.com/mammillaria-meiacantha-pincushion-cactus/.- “Mammillaria meiacantha.” Cactus and Succulent Society of San Jose. Accessed May 10, 2021. http://www.csssj.org/htdocs/Gallery_Cactaceae/Mammillaria/meiacantha.html.- “Mammillaria Meiacantha – Pincushion Cactus.” Mountain Crest Gardens. Accessed May 10, 2021. https://mountaincrestgardens.com/mammillaria-meiacantha-pincushion-cactus/.
