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Description
Mammillaria Grusonii, also known as the Golden Ball Cactus, is one of the most popular cacti species due to its striking appearance and easy care. This cactus is native to Mexico and belongs to the Cactaceae family. Its scientific name is derived from the Latin word “mammilla,” which means nipple and refers to the tubercles that cover its surface. The Mammillaria Grusonii can grow up to 60 cm in height and up to 90 cm in diameter. It has a globular shape, with numerous ribs and large, sharp spines that can reach up to 2 cm in length. The cactus produces yellow flowers that bloom in spring and summer and later develop into small, red fruits.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Caryophyllales |
| Family | Cactaceae |
| Genus | Mammillaria |
| Species | Mammillaria Grusonii |
Appearance
The Mammillaria Grusonii is a beautiful cactus that can add a touch of brightness to any garden or indoor space. Its golden-yellow spines and globular shape make it a popular choice for decoration. The cactus has numerous ribs that are covered with small, cone-shaped tubercles. Each tubercle has a woolly, white areole from which the spines emerge. The spines are thin, needle-like, and yellow, with the central spines being longer and sharper than the radial ones. When it blooms, the Mammillaria Grusonii produces bright yellow flowers that grow from the top of the cactus. The flowers are small, tubular, and have a diameter of approximately 2 cm. They have a pleasant fragrance and attract bees and other pollinators.
Care Guide
The Mammillaria Grusonii is an easy-to-care-for cactus that requires minimal attention. Here are some tips on how to care for this cactus:- Water: The cactus prefers well-draining soil and does not tolerate overwatering. Water it only when the soil is completely dry, and make sure to drain any excess water.- Fertilization: The cactus does not require frequent fertilization. You can feed it with a balanced, low-nitrogen cactus fertilizer during the growing season, from spring to fall.- Soil: The Mammillaria Grusonii prefers a well-draining, sandy soil mix that is specially formulated for cacti and succulents.- Sunlight: The cactus thrives in bright, direct sunlight. Place it in a south-facing window or outdoors in a sunny spot.- Hardiness Zones: The Mammillaria Grusonii is a hardy cactus that can tolerate temperatures as low as 20°F (-6°C). It is suitable for USDA hardiness zones 9 to 11.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Mammillaria Grusonii is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, some common issues that may affect this cactus include:- Mealybugs: These pests are small, white, cotton-like insects that suck sap from the cactus. They can be removed with a cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol.- Scale insects: These pests are small, flat, and brown or black in color. They can be removed with a cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol or a systemic insecticide.- Root rot: This disease is caused by overwatering and poor drainage. To prevent root rot, make sure to water the cactus only when the soil is completely dry and use a well-draining soil mix.
Habitat
The Mammillaria Grusonii is native to the states of San Luis Potosi and Queretaro in Mexico. It grows in rocky, desert areas at elevations of up to 1,500 meters. The cactus is adapted to hot, dry conditions and can tolerate periods of drought.
Question and Answer
Q: Can the Mammillaria Grusonii be propagated from cuttings?
A: Yes, the cactus can be propagated from stem cuttings. Allow the cuttings to dry for a few days before planting them in a well-draining soil mix.Q: How often should I fertilize my Mammillaria Grusonii?
A: You can fertilize the cactus once every two months during the growing season, from spring to fall. Use a balanced, low-nitrogen cactus fertilizer.Q: Does the Mammillaria Grusonii require repotting?
A: The cactus does not require frequent repotting. You can repot it every two to three years or when it outgrows its container.Q: How can I protect my Mammillaria Grusonii from frost?
A: The cactus is hardy but can be damaged by frost. Cover it with a frost cloth or move it indoors during cold weather.
Related Plants
Here are some related cacti species that you may also like:- Mammillaria Elongata- Mammillaria Spinosissima- Mammillaria Recurvata- Mammillaria Prolifera- Mammillaria Plumosa
References
– “Mammillaria Grusonii.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=286020.- “Mammillaria Grusonii.” Cactus Art Nursery, www.cactus-art.biz/schede/MAMMILLARIA/Mammillaria_grusonii/Mammillaria_grusonii/Mammillaria_grusonii.htm.- “Golden Barrel Cactus.” The Spruce, www.thespruce.com/golden-barrel-cactus-4690878.
