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Description
Mammillaria Candida, also known as Snowball Cactus, is a small cactus species native to Mexico. It is a popular ornamental plant due to its unique appearance and low maintenance requirements. The plant produces white, woolly hairs that cover its spherical body, giving it a snowball-like appearance. The flowers of Mammillaria Candida are pink or white and bloom in spring or summer.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Caryophyllales |
| Family | Cactaceae |
| Genus | Mammillaria |
Appearance
Mammillaria Candida is a small cactus that grows up to 3 inches in height and diameter. It has a spherical body covered with white, woolly hairs that protect it from the sun’s harsh rays. The plant’s spines are short and white or yellowish in color. The flowers of Mammillaria Candida are pink or white and appear in spring or summer. They are small, measuring only 1 inch in diameter, and have a pleasant fragrance.
Care Guide
Mammillaria Candida is an easy-to-care-for plant that requires minimal attention. Here are some tips on how to take care of this cactus:
- Water: Water the plant sparingly, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings. Overwatering can lead to root rot.
- Fertilization: Fertilize the plant once a month during the growing season with a cactus-specific fertilizer.
- Soil: Use a well-draining cactus soil mix for planting.
- Sunlight: Mammillaria Candida thrives in bright, indirect sunlight. Avoid exposing it to direct sunlight, which can scorch its delicate skin.
- Hardiness Zones: This cactus can grow in USDA hardiness zones 9a to 11b.
Common Pests & Diseases
Mammillaria Candida is relatively pest and disease-resistant. However, it can still fall prey to common cactus pests, such as mealybugs and spider mites. Keep an eye out for these pests and treat them promptly with insecticidal soap or neem oil. Overwatering can also lead to root rot, which can be fatal to the plant.
Habitat
Mammillaria Candida is native to Mexico, where it grows in rocky, arid environments. It is well-adapted to drought conditions and can survive long periods without water. In its natural habitat, it grows in clusters, forming small mounds that can reach up to 9 inches in height.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Mammillaria Candida be grown indoors?
A: Yes, Mammillaria Candida can be grown indoors as long as it receives bright, indirect sunlight.
Q: Does Mammillaria Candida require special soil?
A: Yes, Mammillaria Candida requires well-draining cactus soil mix for optimal growth.
Q: How often should I water Mammillaria Candida?
A: Water the plant sparingly, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings. Overwatering can lead to root rot.
Q: What is the ideal temperature range for Mammillaria Candida?
A: Mammillaria Candida thrives in temperatures between 60°F and 80°F.
Related Plants
- Mammillaria Gracilis
- Mammillaria Elongata
- Mammillaria Spinosissima
References
- “Mammillaria Candida.” Cactus Art Nursery. Accessed 22 June 2021. http://www.cactus-art.biz/schede/MAMMILLARIA/Mammillaria_candida/Mammillaria_candida/Mammillaria_candida.htm.
- “Mammillaria Candida.” World of Succulents. Accessed 22 June 2021. https://worldofsucculents.com/mammillaria-candida-snowball-cactus/.
- “Mammillaria Candida.” Desert-Tropicals. Accessed 22 June 2021. https://www.desert-tropicals.com/Plants/Cactaceae/Mammillaria_candida.html.
