Contents
Description
Mammillaria Spinosissima is a cactus plant native to Mexico that belongs to the Cactaceae family. This plant is also known as the “Old Lady Cactus” due to the white hair-like spines that cover its stems, giving it a fuzzy appearance. The spines of Mammillaria Spinosissima can grow up to 2.5 cm long and are arranged in a spiral pattern on its cylindrical stems. The plant can reach up to 10 cm in height and 7 cm in diameter, and produces pink flowers that are about 2.5 cm wide.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Caryophyllales |
| Family | Cactaceae |
| Genus | Mammillaria |
Appearance
Mammillaria Spinosissima is a small cactus plant that has a cylindrical shape with a diameter of up to 7 cm. The stems are covered with white hair-like spines that can grow up to 2.5 cm in length, and the spines are arranged in a spiral pattern around the stem. The plant also produces pink flowers that are about 2.5 cm wide, which bloom in the spring and summer.
Care Guide
To keep Mammillaria Spinosissima healthy, you should follow these care guidelines:Water: Water your plant when the soil is dry to the touch. Avoid overwatering, as this can lead to root rot.Fertilization: Fertilize your plant once a month during the growing season with a cactus-specific fertilizer.Soil: Use a well-draining soil mix that is specifically designed for cactus plants.Sunlight: Mammillaria Spinosissima needs plenty of sunlight, so place it in a spot that receives direct sunlight for at least 6 hours a day.Hardiness Zones: This plant is hardy in USDA zones 9a to 11b.
Common Pests & Diseases
Mammillaria Spinosissima is susceptible to mealybugs and spider mites. To prevent these pests, keep the plant clean and free of debris. If you notice an infestation, spray the plant with a mixture of water and dish soap. This plant can also be prone to rot if overwatered, so make sure to let the soil dry out between waterings.
Habitat
Mammillaria Spinosissima is native to Mexico and grows in mountainous regions at elevations of up to 2000 meters. It prefers dry, rocky soils and can tolerate high temperatures and drought.
Question and Answer
Q: How often should I water my Mammillaria Spinosissima?
A: Water your plant when the soil is dry to the touch. Avoid overwatering.Q: How big can Mammillaria Spinosissima grow?
A: This plant can grow up to 10 cm in height and 7 cm in diameter.Q: What kind of soil does Mammillaria Spinosissima need?
A: Use a well-draining soil mix that is specifically designed for cactus plants.Q: When does Mammillaria Spinosissima bloom?
A: This plant produces pink flowers that bloom in the spring and summer.
Related Plants
Here are some related plants to Mammillaria Spinosissima:
- Mammillaria Elongata
- Mammillaria Gracilis
- Mammillaria Prolifera
- Mammillaria Plumosa
References
- “Mammillaria Spinosissima.” Cactus Art Nursery. Accessed 15 July 2021. https://cactus-art.biz/schede/MAMMILLARIA/Mammillaria_spinosissima/Mammillaria_spinosissima/Mammillaria_spinosissima.htm.
- “Mammillaria Spinosissima.” World of Succulents. Accessed 15 July 2021. https://worldofsucculents.com/mammillaria-spinosissima-old-ladys-finger-cactus-old-ladys-finger-mammillaria/.
- “Mammillaria Spinosissima.” Gardening Know How. Accessed 15 July 2021. https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/cacti-succulents/mammillaria/old-lady-cactus-info.htm.
