Contents
Description
Mammillaria Microhelia is a small cactus that is native to Mexico. It belongs to the Cactaceae family and is popular among cacti collectors for its unique appearance. It has a cylindrical shape, and its stem can grow up to 6 inches tall and 1.5 inches in diameter. The stem is covered with white woolly spines that give it a fuzzy appearance. The flowers are small and pink, and they bloom in the summer.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Caryophyllales |
| Family | Cactaceae |
| Genus | Mammillaria |
Appearance
Mammillaria Microhelia has a cylindrical shape with a stem that can grow up to 6 inches tall and 1.5 inches in diameter. The stem is covered with white woolly spines that give it a fuzzy appearance. The flowers are small and pink, and they bloom in the summer. Mammillaria Microhelia is a slow-growing cactus, and it can take years to reach its full size.
Care Guide
Mammillaria Microhelia is a low-maintenance cactus that is easy to care for. Here are some tips on how to care for this cactus:
- Water: Water Mammillaria Microhelia sparingly, allowing the soil to dry out completely before watering. Overwatering can lead to root rot, so be cautious.
- Fertilization: Fertilize Mammillaria Microhelia once a month during the growing season with a cactus fertilizer.
- Soil: Use a well-draining cactus soil mix for Mammillaria Microhelia.
- Sunlight: Mammillaria Microhelia prefers bright, indirect sunlight. Avoid direct sunlight, which can burn the cactus.
- Hardiness Zones: Mammillaria Microhelia is hardy to USDA zones 9-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Mammillaria Microhelia is susceptible to mealybugs and spider mites. Mealybugs can be treated with rubbing alcohol, while spider mites can be treated with insecticidal soap. Overwatering can lead to root rot, which can be fatal to the cactus.
Habitat
Mammillaria Microhelia is native to Mexico and can be found in rocky, arid environments. It grows at elevations between 1500 and 2500 meters above sea level.
Question and Answer
Q: How often should I water Mammillaria Microhelia?
A: Water Mammillaria Microhelia sparingly, allowing the soil to dry out completely before watering. Overwatering can lead to root rot, so be cautious.
Q: What kind of soil should I use for Mammillaria Microhelia?
A: Use a well-draining cactus soil mix for Mammillaria Microhelia.
Q: What are the common pests that affect Mammillaria Microhelia?
A: Mammillaria Microhelia is susceptible to mealybugs and spider mites.
Q: What is the hardiness zone for Mammillaria Microhelia?
A: Mammillaria Microhelia is hardy to USDA zones 9-11.
Related Plants
- Mammillaria Elongata
- Mammillaria Gracilis
- Mammillaria Plumosa
- Mammillaria Spinosissima
References
- CactiGuide.com. (n.d.). Mammillaria microhelia. Retrieved from https://cactiguide.com/cactus/?genus=Mammillaria&species=microhelia
- GardeningKnowHow.com. (n.d.). Mammillaria Microhelia Info: Learn How To Grow Mexican Pincushion Cactus. Retrieved from https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/cacti-succulents/mammillaria/mammillaria-microhelia.htm
- World of Succulents. (n.d.). Mammillaria microhelia (Mexican Pincushion). Retrieved from https://worldofsucculents.com/mammillaria-microhelia-mexican-pincushion/
