Mammillaria magnimamma aka Mexican Pincushion

Taxonomy

Mammillaria magnimamma, also known as the Mexican pincushion, is a clump-forming perennial cactus in the Cactaceae family. This globose plant can reach a height of 15-30 cm and a diameter of about 13 cm. Initially growing solitary, it later forms large clumps that rise above ground level. The tubercles on its green stems are four-sided, covered in white wool and latex. The stems themselves can reach heights of 30 cm and are adorned with white spines. The radial spines, ranging from 2 to 5 in number, are variable in size and have dark tips, measuring 15-45 mm in length. During mid-spring, Mammillaria magnimamma produces small, funnel-shaped flowers near the crowns of the plant. These flowers are typically pink but can also be red or cream, with reddish midveins. With a diameter of 20-25 mm, the flowers add a splash of color to the cactus. The plant also bears club-shaped fruits that are dark red and approximately 20 mm long. These fruits contain little brown seeds, contributing to the propagation of the species.

Common names

Mexican Pincushion

How to care for Mexican Pincushion

Difficulty

Mexican Pincushion requires a bit more attention and knowledge to thrive, making it a suitable plant for those with some gardening experience.

Water

Mexican Pincushion does best in dry soil and should only be watered sparingly.

Soil

The Mexican Pincushion is delicate when it comes to soil that is too damp, therefore, it is crucial to select a potting soil that has efficient drainage and doesn't hold an excessive amount of moisture. An ideal soil should consist of a substantial amount of perlite or vermiculite for proper drainage and some organic matter for nutrition. Mixing a few handfuls of perlite with commercially available cactus soil should produce the desired result.

Lighting

To ensure optimal growth, the Mexican Pincushion prefers bright diffused light for 6-8 hours each day. Insufficient light can result in slow growth and leaf drop, so it's important to find a well-lit location for this plant. Place it near a window, within a distance of 1 meter (3 feet), to enhance its potential for thriving.

Dormancy

During the cold period, it is common for Mexican Pincushion to go dormant and their growth may slow down, so waterings should be spaced out more during this period.

Toxicity

Ploi does not possess verified information regarding the toxicity of this particular plant. In the event that you, a member of your family, or a pet ingests plant material with an unclear toxicity level, it is highly recommended to seek the advice of a medical professional.

Humidity

Mexican Pincushion thrives in dry environments, but if you provide extra humidity or mist your plant, the lingering water on its leaves could create an ideal environment for certain fungal diseases.

Fertilizer

The growth of Mexican Pincushion is gradual and it doesn't necessitate any additional fertilizers. Replacing the soil in its pot once a year should suffice to provide the plant with sufficient nutrition. It's important to keep in mind that plants derive their energy from the sun's rays, not fertilizers.

Region of origin

Mexican Pincushion’s native range is the Southwestern United States, Central America, and the Caribbean.


More info:
Wikipedia