Long-Mamma Cactus
mammillaria longimamma
Also known as: ["Long-Mamma Cactus","Mammillaria elongata"]
Overview
A small, globular cactus species with elongated tubercles and white spines, 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 longimamma |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Succulents & Cacti
- Suitable Location: indoor pot in bright, sunny location or outdoor 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 waterlogged roots.
- Soil Type: Well-draining cactus or succulent mix with added perlite or sand.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: very low
- Toughness Level: high
- Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically annually or when dead growth is present.
- Pruning Intensity: Light pruning; focus on removing only dead or diseased parts.
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 partial shade.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easyeasy
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant weekly for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter intense 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 overhead watering.
Soil
fast-draining cactus mix with added perlite or pumice
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Use a pot with drainage holes; avoid heavy garden soil; ensure soil dries between waterings.
Temperature
Prefers 65–85°F (18–29°C); tolerates mild frost but thrives in warm, dry conditions.
Avoid sudden temperature shifts; protect from drafts; maintain consistent warmth during active growth.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during active growth with diluted cactus fertilizer
Fertilize after watering to prevent root burn; stop in fall/winter; use a low-nitrogen formula.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or offsets (pups);Offsets are the most reliable method.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Select a healthy offset or cutting.
- Let it callus for a few days.
- Plant in dry medium.
- Water lightly after roots form.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm, humid environment with indirect light; maintain moderate humidity until roots form.
Medium
Well-draining cactus mix or perlite and sand mixture.
Hormone
Optional, but rooting hormone can speed up the process.
Timeline
Offsets may root in 2–4 weeks; cuttings may take 4–8 weeks to root and establish.
Tools Needed
Clean knife or scissors, rooting hormone (optional), small pots, well-draining medium.
Quick Tips
Allow cuttings to callus before planting; use a clear plastic bag to maintain humidity; avoid overwatering.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Snip off dead or damaged stems at the base; avoid cutting healthy growth.
Pruning Plan
Minimal pruning needed; remove dead or damaged stems to maintain shape and health.
Tools
Clean, sharp pruning shears or scissors.
Checklist
Sanitize tools; prune dead/damaged stems; avoid over-pruning.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before the active growing season begins.
Pot Size
One size larger pot (e.g., +2–3 cm in diameter); ensure good drainage.
Method
Remove plant gently; 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 the plant outgrows its container; necessary to refresh soil and prevent root binding.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot size; use fresh soil; ensure drainage holes; water sparingly after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water deeply; ensure drainage; adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the soil level, ensuring even moisture reaches the root zone; allow excess water 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.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand to improve drainage; incorporate organic matter for fertility.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, yellowing, or shriveling in cold; scorching or stunted growth in excessive heat.
Cold Stress
Slows growth; may cause root rot if soil remains wet in cold temperatures.
Solution: Move to a warmer location; ensure soil is dry before cold exposure; provide frost protection if needed.
Hot Stress
Can lead to dehydration, sunburn, or etiolation if not provided adequate water and shade.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase watering frequency; ensure good air circulation.
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; fertilize monthly during growing season (spring/summer); avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicMammillaria longimamma is not toxic to cats. The spines may cause mechanical injury if ingested, but no toxic compounds are present that would cause systemic effects.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if ingested
Dogs
Non-toxicMammillaria longimamma is not toxic to dogs. The spines may cause mechanical injury if ingested, but no toxic compounds are present that would cause systemic effects.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if ingested
Humans
Non-toxicMammillaria longimamma is generally considered non-toxic to humans. The plant's spines may cause mechanical irritation upon contact, but no significant toxic effects are associated with ingestion or skin contact.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if touched or ingested
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How often should I water Mammillaria longimamma?
A: Water sparingly, allowing the soil to dry completely between waterings, especially during winter dormancy.
Q: Does this cactus need full sun?
A: Yes, it thrives in bright, direct sunlight but can tolerate partial shade.
Q: Can I propagate Mammillaria longimamma?
A: Yes, it can be propagated by offsets or seeds, though offsets are more reliable.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Cactaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during growi |
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