Contents
Description
Mammillaria Vetula Subsp. Gracilis, also known as Thimble Cactus, is a small cactus that belongs to the Cactaceae family. It is native to Mexico and can grow up to 4 inches in height and 6 inches in diameter. The plant has a cylindrical shape with green stems that are covered with white spines. It produces small flowers that are usually pink or white in color, and bloom in the summer.
Taxonomic Information
Domain | Eukarya |
Kingdom | Plantae |
Phylum | Tracheophyta |
Class | Magnoliopsida |
Order | Caryophyllales |
Family | Cactaceae |
Genus | Mammillaria |
Appearance
The Mammillaria Vetula Subsp. Gracilis plant has a cylindrical shape and grows up to 4 inches in height and 6 inches in diameter. It has green stems that are covered with white spines. The spines are usually arranged in a radial pattern around the stem. The plant produces small flowers that are usually pink or white in color, and bloom in the summer. The flowers are followed by small red fruits that contain seeds.
Care Guide
Mammillaria Vetula Subsp. Gracilis is a hardy plant that requires minimal care. Here are some tips on how to care for this plant:
Water
Water the plant thoroughly once a week during the growing season (spring and summer). Allow the soil to dry out completely before watering again. Reduce watering during the dormant season (fall and winter).
Fertilization
Fertilize the plant once a month during the growing season with a cactus fertilizer. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for application.
Soil
Use a well-draining cactus soil mix. You can also add sand or perlite to improve drainage.
Sunlight
Place the plant in a bright location with direct sunlight for at least 6 hours a day.
Hardiness Zones
Mammillaria Vetula Subsp. Gracilis is hardy in USDA zones 9-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Mammillaria Vetula Subsp. Gracilis plant is susceptible to mealybugs, spider mites, and scale insects. These pests can be controlled with an insecticidal soap or neem oil. The plant is also prone to root rot if overwatered. To prevent root rot, ensure that the soil is well-draining and allow it to dry out between waterings.
Habitat
Mammillaria Vetula Subsp. Gracilis is native to Mexico and can be found growing in rocky and sandy areas. It thrives in hot and dry conditions with little rainfall.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Mammillaria Vetula Subsp. Gracilis be grown indoors?
A: Yes, it can be grown indoors as long as it receives plenty of sunlight.
Q: How often should I fertilize Mammillaria Vetula Subsp. Gracilis?
A: Fertilize the plant once a month during the growing season with a cactus fertilizer.
Q: How often should I water Mammillaria Vetula Subsp. Gracilis?
A: Water the plant thoroughly once a week during the growing season (spring and summer). Allow the soil to dry out completely before watering again. Reduce watering during the dormant season (fall and winter).
Q: What are the hardiness zones for Mammillaria Vetula Subsp. Gracilis?
A: Mammillaria Vetula Subsp. Gracilis is hardy in USDA zones 9-11.
Related Plants
- Mammillaria Elongata
- Mammillaria Gracilis
- Mammillaria Plumosa
- Mammillaria Spinosissima
References
- Benson, L. (1982). The Cacti of the United States and Canada. Stanford University Press.
- Hunt, D. (2013). The New Cactus Lexicon. dh books.
- Wikipedia contributors. (2021, August 4). Mammillaria vetula subsp. gracilis. In Wikipedia, The Free Encyclopedia. Retrieved 11:23, September 10, 2021, from https://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Mammillaria_vetula_subsp._gracilis&oldid=1036800331