Winter's Pincushion
mammillaria winterae
Also known as: []
Overview
A small, globular cactus with white spines and pink flowers, native to Mexico.
Benefits & Perks
["low maintenance","drought tolerant","rare/collector’s item"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Caryophyllales |
| Family: | Cactaceae |
| Genus: | Mammillaria |
| Botanical Name: | Mammillaria winterae |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Succulents & Cacti
- Suitable Location: indoor pot in bright, sunny location or outdoor in rock garden with excellent drainage
- 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 mix with added perlite or sand for aeration.
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; avoid heavy pruning unless necessary.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light or partial sun (4–6 hours/day); adjust to avoid scorching in intense summer sun.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to intense light; protect from direct midday sun; place in a spot with filtered light or morning sun.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easyeasy
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant weekly for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter harsh light; avoid sudden light changes.
Watering
every 7–10 days during growing season, reduce to every 3–4 weeks in winter
Water deeply but infrequently; ensure soil dries between waterings; avoid overwatering, especially in winter.
Soil
well-draining cactus mix with added perlite or pumice
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Use pots with drainage holes; avoid heavy garden soil; let soil dry between waterings.
Temperature
Prefers 65–85°F (18–29°C); tolerates mild frost but best kept above 50°F (10°C); cooler winter temps (50–55°F) promote dormancy.
Avoid drafts; maintain stable temps; protect from sudden temperature swings.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during active growth (April–September), none in winter
Fertilize after watering to prevent root burn; avoid over-fertilizing; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or offsets (pups);Offsets are the most reliable method.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Separate offset.
- Let cut end dry for a few days.
- Plant in dry soil.
- Water lightly after roots form.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm (70–75°F), bright indirect light, and high humidity (e.g., propagation dome).
Medium
Well-draining mix of cactus soil and perlite or sand.
Hormone
Not necessary but can speed up rooting.
Timeline
Offsets establish in 2–4 weeks; cuttings may take 4–8 weeks to root.
Tools Needed
Clean knife or scissors, rooting hormone (optional), small pots, well-draining soil.
Quick Tips
Allow cuttings to callous before planting; keep soil barely moist; provide bottom heat if possible.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Snip offsets with clean, sharp tools; remove dead spines or stems carefully.
Pruning Plan
Minimal pruning; remove offsets to control size or encourage bushier growth; trim damaged or dead parts.
Tools
Clean, sharp scissors or pruning shears.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune offsets or damaged parts; avoid cutting healthy growth.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before the growing season begins.
Pot Size
One size larger pot (e.g., +2 inches in diameter); ensure good drainage.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if necessary; repot in fresh, well-draining soil; allow to dry before watering.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; offsets may need separating.
Checklist
Check root health; use fresh soil; ensure proper drainage; avoid over-potting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; 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.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water thoroughly when the top inch of soil is dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot; increase slightly in summer during active growth.
Soil Improvement
Add coarse sand or perlite to commercial cactus mix; ensure pots have drainage holes.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Chlorosis or purpling leaves in cold; wilting or sunburn in excessive heat; stunted growth in temperature extremes.
Cold Stress
Slows growth; may cause root damage or rot if soil stays wet in cold; can lead to etiolation if light is insufficient.
Solution: Move to a warmer location; ensure soil is dry before cold exposure; provide frost protection if outdoors.
Hot Stress
Causes dehydration; may lead to sunburn or scorching; can trigger premature flowering or bud drop.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity; water more frequently but avoid wetting the plant body.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use correct dilution; fertilize during active growth; avoid winter feeding.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced cactus fertilizer diluted to half strength; fertilize monthly during growing season (spring/summer); cease in fall/winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicMammillaria winterae is not known to be toxic to cats. It poses no significant health risks if ingested or handled.
⚡ Toxic If:
None
Dogs
Non-toxicMammillaria winterae is not known to be toxic to dogs. It poses no significant health risks if ingested or handled.
⚡ Toxic If:
None
Humans
Non-toxicMammillaria winterae is not known to have any toxic effects on humans. It is generally considered safe for handling and consumption.
⚡ Toxic If:
None
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How often should I water Mammillaria winterae?
A: Water sparingly, allowing the soil to dry completely between waterings, especially during winter.
Q: Does this cactus need full sun?
A: Yes, it thrives in bright, direct sunlight but can tolerate partial shade.
Q: Is Mammillaria winterae toxic to pets?
A: No, it is non-toxic to dogs and cats.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Cactaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during growi |
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