Mammillaria are the largest genus of the cactus family
No other cactus species has as many representatives as the Mammillaria. Over 400 species are known worldwide. They differ in growth form, height and color of the flowers. Most of the variations remain rather small with a height of ten centimeters.
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Many varieties form the well-known spherical bodies. But there are also species that develop columnar shoots.
In addition to the flowers, the Mammillaria have very differently pronounced thorns. Therefore, when caring for this species of cactus, be careful not to injure yourself.
Well-known species of Mammillaria
The most well-known species of this cactus family include:
- Mammillaria spinosissima
- Mammillaria bocasana
- Mammillaria elongata
- Mammillaria gracilis
- Mammillaria vetula
- Mammillaria senilis
- Mammillaria luethyi
The flowers appear in the shape of a wreath
A specialty of Mammillaria are the flowers, which do not appear in the middle but in the shape of a wreath. They are tubular, wheel or bell-shaped. Some varieties have very large flowers.
The flower colors vary from white to yellow and pink to red. There are also varieties with multicolored flowers.
Mammillaria is usually not hardy
Most Mammillaria species do not tolerate sub-zero temperatures. They don't even appreciate it when the temperature drops below ten degrees. Very few varieties can cope with the cold and can be planted in the garden.
In order for the Mammillaria to develop flowers, it needs a break in winter. During this time it is placed a little cooler. Temperatures between 12 and 15 degrees are ideal.
Mammillaria likes direct sunlight and can therefore also be grown in the south window. They then develop particularly large flowers and very decorative thorns. Only the green varieties do not like direct midday sun.
Put outside in summer
In summer, Mammillaria estimates temperatures between 20 and 25 degrees. She likes it outside better than in the room.
Tips
Mammillaria cacti come from the American area. Most of the species occur naturally in Mexico, but there are also larger occurrences in Colombia.
