Copper King
mammillaria elongata
Also known as: ["Ladyfinger Cactus","Gold Lace Cactus"]
Overview
A small, globular cactus with elongated tubercles and yellowish spines, native to Mexico.
Benefits & Perks
["low maintenance","pet-friendly","drought tolerant","rare/collector’s item"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Caryophyllales |
| Family: | Cactaceae |
| Genus: | Mammillaria |
| Botanical Name: | Mammillaria elongata |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Succulents & Cacti
- Suitable Location: indoor pot with bright, indirect light or outdoor in a well-drained rock garden
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–35°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"9–11"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining cactus or succulent mix with added perlite or coarse sand.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: very low
- Toughness Level: high
- Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically annually or when offsets become crowded.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate; focus on shaping and removing unwanted growth.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light or 4–6 hours of direct morning sun; reduce direct exposure in intense summer afternoons.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to direct sun to avoid sunburn; provide shade during peak summer heat; indoor placement should mimic bright, airy conditions.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easyeasy
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant weekly for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter harsh sunlight; avoid placing near hot windows in summer.
Watering
every 7–10 days during growing season, reduce to every 3–4 weeks in winter
Water deeply but infrequently; ensure soil dries completely between waterings; avoid overwatering to prevent root rot.
Soil
fast-draining cactus mix with added perlite or sand
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Use pots with drainage holes; avoid compacted soil; top-dress with gravel for aesthetics and drainage.
Temperature
Prefers 65–85°F (18–29°C); tolerates mild frost but best kept above 40°F (4°C); thrives in warm, dry conditions.
Avoid sudden temperature changes; protect from drafts; maintain consistent warmth in winter.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during active growth with diluted cactus fertilizer
Fertilize only when actively growing; avoid over-fertilizing which can burn roots; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings (offsets or pups); occasionally by seed.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Remove offset with a clean knife.
- Let cut end dry for a few days.
- Plant in dry soil.
- Water lightly after roots appear.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm, bright indirect light; maintain moderate humidity (50–60%) until roots form.
Medium
Well-draining mix of cactus soil and perlite or sand.
Hormone
Not necessary but can speed up rooting.
Timeline
Roots develop in 2–4 weeks; establish in new pot within 2–3 months.
Tools Needed
Clean knife or scissors, rooting hormone (optional), small pot, well-draining soil.
Quick Tips
Allow cut end to callous before planting; use small pots to limit soil volume; avoid overwatering new cuttings.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Snip offsets or stems with clean, sharp tools; avoid cutting into main plant body.
Pruning Plan
Minimal pruning; remove offsets for propagation or to control size; trim damaged or dead stems.
Tools
Clean, sharp scissors or small pruning shears.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune offsets or damaged stems; allow cuts to dry before handling.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before active growth begins.
Pot Size
One size larger pot (e.g., +2–3 cm in diameter); ensure good drainage.
Method
Gently remove plant; trim any dead roots; place in a slightly larger pot with fresh cactus mix; water lightly after repotting.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; necessary to refresh soil and provide space.
Checklist
Check root health; use fresh soil; ensure proper drainage; avoid overwatering post-repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil dryness; water deeply; ensure drainage; adjust frequency by season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the soil level, avoiding the plant's body; ensure water reaches the root zone; allow excess to drain completely; water in the morning to reduce evaporation and fungal risk.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water thoroughly when the top inch of soil is dry; reduce frequency in winter to once every 4–6 weeks; increase slightly in summer to every 2–3 weeks depending on heat and humidity.
Soil Improvement
Add coarse sand or perlite to commercial potting mix; ensure pots have drainage holes; avoid heavy, water-retentive soils.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Chlorosis or purpling of stems in cold; wilting or shriveling in heat; stunted growth in extreme conditions.
Cold Stress
Slows growth; may cause root damage if soil remains cold and wet; can lead to fungal infections.
Solution: Move to a warmer location; ensure soil is dry before cold spells; use a heat mat for indoor plants in winter.
Hot Stress
Causes dehydration; may lead to sunburn or scorching; can trigger etiolation if not enough light.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity slightly; water more frequently but carefully in hot, dry periods.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use diluted fertilizer; apply during growing season; avoid winter feeding.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, water-soluble cactus fertilizer diluted to half strength; apply monthly during growing season (spring/summer); cease in fall/winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Slightly ToxicCats may experience mild gastrointestinal distress if they ingest Mammillaria elongata. The spines pose a risk of mechanical injury.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Slightly ToxicIngestion of Mammillaria elongata may lead to mild gastrointestinal upset in dogs. The spines can cause mechanical injury if swallowed.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Slightly ToxicMammillaria elongata contains mild toxins that can cause gastrointestinal discomfort if ingested. The spines may also cause mechanical irritation upon contact.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How often should I water Mammillaria elongata?
A: Water sparingly, allowing the soil to dry completely between waterings, especially during winter.
Q: Does this cactus need direct sunlight?
A: Yes, it thrives in bright, direct sunlight but can tolerate partial shade.
Q: Can Mammillaria elongata be grown indoors?
A: Yes, it is well-suited for indoor cultivation in bright, well-lit areas.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Cactaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during growi |
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