Contents
Description
Mammillaria Senilis, also known as Old Lady Cactus, is a popular cactus species that belongs to the Cactaceae family. This cactus is native to central Mexico and is commonly found in the states of Guanajuato, Hidalgo, and Queretaro.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Caryophyllales |
| Family | Cactaceae |
| Genus | Mammillaria |
Appearance
Mammillaria Senilis is a small cactus that grows up to 15 cm tall and 30 cm wide. It has a globular shape and is covered in fine white hairs that give it a fuzzy appearance. The cactus has numerous spines that are arranged in a radial pattern, and can vary in color from white to yellow.
Care Guide
Mammillaria Senilis is a hardy plant that is easy to care for. Here are some care tips:
- Water: Water your cactus sparingly, only when the soil is completely dry.
- Fertilization: Fertilize your cactus once a month during the growing season with a cactus-specific fertilizer.
- Soil: Plant your cactus in well-draining soil, such as a cactus mix.
- Sunlight: Place your cactus in bright, indirect sunlight.
- Hardiness Zones: Mammillaria Senilis can tolerate a wide range of temperatures, but is best suited for hardiness zones 9-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Mammillaria Senilis is susceptible to mealybugs, spider mites, and scale insects. These pests can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil. Overwatering can lead to root rot, so it is important to water your cactus sparingly.
Habitat
Mammillaria Senilis is native to central Mexico, where it grows in rocky, arid regions. It is commonly found in the states of Guanajuato, Hidalgo, and Queretaro.
Question and Answer
Q: How often should I water my Mammillaria Senilis?
A: You should water your Mammillaria Senilis sparingly, only when the soil is completely dry.
Q: What kind of soil should I use for my Mammillaria Senilis?
A: You should plant your Mammillaria Senilis in well-draining soil, such as a cactus mix.
Q: What are some common pests that affect Mammillaria Senilis?
A: Mealybugs, spider mites, and scale insects are common pests that affect Mammillaria Senilis.
Q: Where is Mammillaria Senilis native to?
A: Mammillaria Senilis is native to central Mexico, specifically the states of Guanajuato, Hidalgo, and Queretaro.
Related Plants
- Mammillaria Gracilis
- Mammillaria Elongata
- Mammillaria Bocasana
- Mammillaria Echinata
References
- “Old Lady Cactus: Mammillaria Senilis Care Guide.” Succulent Alley, 2021, www.succulentalley.com/mammillaria-senilis-care-guide/.
- “Mammillaria Senilis.” World of Succulents, 2021, worldofsucculents.com/mammillaria-senilis-old-lady-cactus/.
- “Mammillaria Senilis.” CactiGuide.com, 2021, www.cactiguide.com/cactus/?genus=Mammillaria&species=senilis.
