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Description
Mammillaria Lasiacantha, commonly known as the Hairy Nipple Cactus, is a small, slow-growing cactus native to Mexico. It is a popular choice among cactus enthusiasts due to its unique appearance and ease of care. The plant has a globular shape that can grow up to 6 inches in diameter with a height of 2-3 inches. The stem is covered with dense white hairs and has a bright green color. Its spines are thin, needle-like, and can grow up to 1 inch long.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Caryophyllales |
| Family | Cactaceae |
| Genus | Mammillaria |
Appearance
The Mammillaria Lasiacantha is a unique-looking cactus. Its stem has a globular shape and covered with dense white hairs that give it a fuzzy appearance. The stem is bright green and can grow up to 6 inches in diameter and 2-3 inches in height. Its spines are thin, needle-like, and can grow up to 1 inch long. The plant produces small pink flowers that bloom in spring and summer.
Care Guide
The Mammillaria Lasiacantha is an easy-to-care-for cactus that can thrive indoors or outdoors. Here are some care tips:
- Water: Water the plant thoroughly once a week during the growing season (spring and summer) and reduce watering in fall and winter. Allow the soil to dry out between waterings.
- Fertilization: Fertilize the plant once a month during the growing season using a balanced cactus fertilizer.
- Soil: Plant the cactus in well-draining soil such as cactus mix or sandy soil.
- Sunlight: Place the cactus in a bright location with direct sunlight for at least 6 hours a day.
- Hardiness Zones: The Mammillaria Lasiacantha can grow in USDA hardiness zones 9a-11b.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Mammillaria Lasiacantha is relatively disease and pest-free. However, it can be susceptible to mealybugs, spider mites, and scale insects. The plant can also suffer from root rot if overwatered or planted in poorly-draining soil. To prevent pests and diseases, inspect the plant regularly and treat with insecticides or fungicides as needed.
Habitat
The Mammillaria Lasiacantha is native to Mexico and grows in rocky, dry environments at elevations of 3,000-5,000 feet. It can grow in full sun or partial shade and prefers well-draining soil.
Question and Answer
Q: Can the Mammillaria Lasiacantha grow indoors?
A: Yes, the plant can grow indoors as long as it receives enough sunlight and is planted in well-draining soil.
Q: How often should I fertilize my Mammillaria Lasiacantha?
A: Fertilize the plant once a month during the growing season using a balanced cactus fertilizer.
Q: How do I propagate my Mammillaria Lasiacantha?
A: The plant can be propagated by offsets, seeds, or cuttings. Allow the offsets to dry for a few days before planting in well-draining soil.
Q: Can I grow Mammillaria Lasiacantha in a terrarium?
A: It is not recommended to grow the plant in a terrarium as it requires direct sunlight and prefers well-draining soil.
Related Plants
- Mammillaria Elongata
- Mammillaria Gracilis
- Mammillaria Prolifera
- Mammillaria Spinosissima
References
- “Mammillaria Lasiacantha.” Cactus Art Nursery, www.cactus-art.biz/schede/MAMMILLARIA/Mammillaria_lasiacantha/Mammillaria_lasiacantha/Mammillaria_lasiacantha.htm.
- “Mammillaria Lasiacantha.” World of Succulents, worldofsucculents.com/mammillaria-lasiacantha-hairy-nipple-cactus/.
- “Mammillaria Lasiacantha.” The Spruce, www.thespruce.com/growing-hairy-nipple-cactus-1902802.
