Mammillaria elongata

Mammillaria elongata, commonly known as Ladyfinger Cactus or Gold Lace Cactus, is a small, cylindrical cactus known for its fuzzy appearance due to golden to reddish-brown spines. Growing up to 6-15 centimeters tall, it thrives in bright, direct sunlight and requires moderate watering with well-draining soil. This attractive, low-maintenance cactus is a popular choice for cactus collections and indoor gardens.

SKU: GNF183 Category:

Botanical Name and Family:

Botanical Name: Mammillaria elongata
Family: Cactaceae

Botanical Characteristics:

Height: Typically grows up to 6-15 centimeters (2.4-6 inches) tall.
Shape: Cylindrical stems that can grow singularly or in clusters, forming dense mats.
Stems: Elongated, cylindrical, and covered with tubercles (small, nipple-like projections).
Spines: Golden to reddish-brown spines, arranged in radial patterns around the tubercles, giving the cactus a fuzzy appearance.
Flowers: Small, creamy-white to pale yellow flowers that appear in a ring near the top of the stems.
Fruits: Red, elongated fruits containing small seeds.

Natural Habitat:

Native Range: Native to central Mexico, particularly in the states of Hidalgo, Guanajuato, and Querétaro.

Growth Requirements:
Light: Prefers bright, direct sunlight but can tolerate some partial shade. Requires at least 4-6 hours of sunlight daily.
Water: Needs moderate watering during the growing season (spring and summer). Allow the soil to dry out completely between waterings. Water sparingly in winter.
Soil: Well-draining soil, such as a cactus or succulent mix.
Temperature: Thrives in warm temperatures, ideally between 70-85°F (21-29°C) during the growing season. Can tolerate cooler temperatures down to around 50°F (10°C) but should be protected from frost.

Cultivation Methods:

Soil: Use a well-draining potting mix suitable for cacti.
Watering: Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure the soil is completely dry before the next watering. Reduce watering significantly during the winter dormancy period.
Lighting: Provide bright, direct sunlight for optimal growth. Can handle some partial shade but grows best with ample sunlight.

Care Recommendations:
Propagation: Easily propagated from offsets (pups) or seeds. Offsets can be removed and replanted once they have formed roots.
Fertilization: Feed with a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half strength once a month during the growing season (spring and summer).
Pests and Diseases: Generally pest-free but can occasionally suffer from mealybugs or spider mites. Overwatering can lead to root rot.

Special Contents:

Chemical Compounds: Contains typical cactus sap which is non-toxic but should still be handled with care to avoid skin irritation from spines.

Various Uses:
Applications: Popular as an ornamental plant in cactus and succulent collections due to its unique, fuzzy appearance and attractive clustering growth habit. Suitable for windowsill gardens and indoor pots.

Challenges and Limitations:

Issues: Sensitive to overwatering and poor drainage, which can lead to root rot. Needs protection from frost and very cold temperatures.

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