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Description
Mammillaria Elongata, also known as Ladyfinger Cactus, is a small cactus species native to Mexico. It belongs to the Cactaceae family, which includes more than 2,000 different species of cacti. The plant is named for its elongated shape, which resembles a finger or a pencil. The plant can grow up to 20 cm in height and 10 cm in diameter. The cactus has a green stem that is covered in white spines and pink flowers that bloom in the spring and summer.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Caryophyllales |
| Family | Cactaceae |
| Genus | Mammillaria |
Appearance
Mammillaria Elongata has a cylindrical, elongated stem that can grow up to 20 cm in height and 10 cm in diameter. The stem is covered in white spines that are arranged in a radial pattern. The spines can be up to 2 cm in length and are usually curved. The plant has pink flowers that bloom in the spring and summer. The flowers are about 2 cm in diameter and have five petals. The fruit of the plant is small and red.
Care Guide
To ensure the healthy growth of Mammillaria Elongata, it is important to follow these care guidelines:
Water: The cactus should be watered once a week during the growing season (spring and summer) and once a month during the dormant season (fall and winter). The soil should be allowed to dry out completely between waterings.
Fertilization: The cactus should be fertilized once a month during the growing season with a cactus fertilizer. Follow the instructions on the package for application rates.
Soil: Mammillaria Elongata prefers well-draining soil that is slightly acidic. A cactus soil mix is recommended.
Sunlight: The cactus should be placed in a bright, sunny location. It can tolerate some shade, but too much shade can cause the plant to become leggy.
Hardiness Zones: Mammillaria Elongata is hardy in USDA zones 9-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Mammillaria Elongata is susceptible to a few common pests and diseases:
Mealybugs: These insects can be identified by their white, cottony appearance. They can be removed by wiping them off with a cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol.
Scale Insects: These insects can be identified by their brown, waxy appearance. They can be removed by wiping them off with a cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol.
Root Rot: This disease is caused by overwatering and can be identified by the plant’s wilted appearance. To prevent root rot, make sure to allow the soil to dry out completely between waterings.
Habitat
Mammillaria Elongata is native to Mexico and can be found growing in rocky areas and on hillsides. The plant prefers dry, well-draining soil and can tolerate hot temperatures.
Questions and Answers
Q: How often should I water Mammillaria Elongata?
A: The cactus should be watered once a week during the growing season (spring and summer) and once a month during the dormant season (fall and winter). The soil should be allowed to dry out completely between waterings.
Q: What kind of soil does Mammillaria Elongata prefer?
A: Mammillaria Elongata prefers well-draining soil that is slightly acidic. A cactus soil mix is recommended.
Q: What are some common pests and diseases that affect Mammillaria Elongata?
A: Mammillaria Elongata is susceptible to mealybugs, scale insects, and root rot.
Q: What is the hardiness zone for Mammillaria Elongata?
A: Mammillaria Elongata is hardy in USDA zones 9-11.
Related Plants
- Mammillaria Gracilis
- Mammillaria Spinosissima
- Mammillaria Prolifera
References
- https://www.succulentsandsunshine.com/mammillaria-elongata-ladyfinger-cactus/
- https://worldofsucculents.com/mammillaria-elongata-ladyfinger-cactus/
- https://cactiguide.com/cactus/?genus=Mammillaria&species=elongata
