- Mammillaria are the largest genus of the cactus family
- Known species of Mammillaria
- The flowers appear in the form of a wreath
- Mammillaria is usually not hardy
- Put outside in summer
The largest family of cactus plants is summarized under the name Mammillaria. There are over 400 species of this low-maintenance cactus variety. The growth forms are very different, and the flowers can also have very different colors.
Mammillaria spinosissima is just one of 400 Mammillaria species
Mammillaria are the largest genus of the cactus family
No other type of cactus has as many representatives as Mammillaria. Over 400 species are known worldwide. They differ in growth form, height and color of the flowers. Most variations remain rather small with a height of ten centimetres.
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 different thorns. Therefore, when caring for this cactus species, be careful not to injure yourself.
Known species of Mammillaria
The most well-known species of this cacti family include:
- Mammillaria spinosissima
- Mammillaria bocasana
- Mammillaria elongata
- Mammillaria gracilis
- Mammillaria vetula
- Mammillaria senilis
- Mammillaria luethyi
The flowers appear in the form of a wreath
A special feature of the Mammillaria are the flowers, which do not appear in the middle but in the form 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. Only very few varieties can cope with cold and can be planted in the garden.
In order for the Mammillaria to develop flowers, it needs a rest period in winter. During this time it is kept a little cooler. Temperatures between 12 and 15 degrees are ideal.
Mammillaria likes direct sunlight and can therefore also be grown in a south-facing 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 appreciates temperatures between 20 and 25 degrees. She likes it better outside than in the room.
tips
Mammillaria cacti are native to the American range. Most species occur naturally in Mexico, but there are also larger occurrences in Colombia.