Cochise County pincushion
mammillaria tetrancistra
Also known as: ["Cochise pincushion cactus","four-spined mammillaria"]
Overview
A small, globular cactus with prominent spines and white flowers, native to the southwestern United States and Mexico.
Benefits & Perks
["drought tolerant","low maintenance","rare/collector’s item"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Caryophyllales |
| Family: | Cactaceae |
| Genus: | Mammillaria |
| Botanical Name: | Mammillaria tetrancistra |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Succulents & Cacti
- Suitable Location: indoor pot with bright light or outdoor garden in arid regions
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–35°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"8–11"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent root rot.
- Soil Type: Well-draining cactus mix with added perlite or 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; remove only offsets or damaged parts.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light or full sun (4–6 hours daily). Adjust to morning sun with afternoon shade in hot climates.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to intense light; protect from scorching midday sun; indoors, place near south-facing windows with filtered light.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easyeasy
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant weekly for even growth; use sheer curtains in intense sun; avoid direct afternoon sun in summer.
Watering
every 7–10 days during growing season, every 3–4 weeks in winter
Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure soil dries completely between waterings; avoid overhead watering.
Soil
well-draining, sandy cactus mix
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Use pots with drainage; avoid heavy garden soil; top-dress with gravel for aesthetics.
Temperature
Ideal range 65–85°F (18–29°C). Tolerates mild frost but prefers warm, dry conditions.
Protect from frost; avoid sudden temperature swings; ensure good air circulation.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during active growth with balanced cactus fertilizer
Fertilize only when actively growing; avoid over-fertilizing; water lightly before feeding.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or offsets (pups).
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Remove offset.
- Let cut end dry for 1–2 days.
- Plant in medium.
- Water sparingly until rooted.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm (70–80°F), bright indirect light, and high humidity (e.g., propagation dome).
Medium
Cactus mix or perlite and sand mixture.
Hormone
Not necessary but can speed up rooting.
Timeline
Roots develop in 2–4 weeks; establish in 2–3 months.
Tools Needed
Clean knife, rooting hormone (optional), small pot, cactus mix.
Quick Tips
Allow cuttings to callous before planting; use sterile tools; maintain consistent moisture.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Twist offsets gently to remove; use clean, sharp tools for any cutting.
Pruning Plan
Minimal pruning; remove offsets to control size or encourage bushier growth.
Tools
Clean knife or small pruning shears.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; twist offsets gently; avoid cutting healthy parts.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before active growth begins.
Pot Size
One size larger pot (e.g., +2 inches in diameter).
Method
Remove plant carefully; trim roots if needed; repot in fresh cactus mix with a slight size increase.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; offsets may outgrow their space quickly.
Checklist
Check root health; use fresh soil; ensure drainage; water lightly after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water deeply; ensure drainage; avoid wetting the plant.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the soil level, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone. Allow excess water to drain freely; water in the morning to prevent fungal issues.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once every 7–10 days during active growth (spring/summer); reduce to every 3–4 weeks in winter. Adjust based on rainfall and humidity.
Soil Improvement
Add coarse sand or perlite to standard potting soil; ensure pots have drainage holes.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Chlorosis, wilting, or shriveling in cold; sunburn or stunted growth in excessive heat.
Cold Stress
Low temperatures slow growth and can cause root rot if soil remains wet.
Solution: Move to a warmer location; ensure soil is dry; provide frost protection in cold climates.
Hot Stress
Excessive heat can cause dehydration, sunburn, or etiolation if not acclimated.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity; water more frequently but avoid waterlogging.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check growth phase; dilute fertilizer; apply to soil; avoid foliage contact.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced cactus fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during spring/summer; cease in fall/winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicMammillaria tetrancistra is not considered toxic to cats. Similar to dogs, ingestion may lead to mild gastrointestinal discomfort, but no severe toxic reactions are documented.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Non-toxicMammillaria tetrancistra is not considered toxic to dogs. Ingestion may cause mild gastrointestinal upset due to the plant's fibrous texture, but no significant toxic effects are expected.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Non-toxicMammillaria tetrancistra is generally non-toxic to humans. The primary concern is mechanical injury from its spines, which can cause localized pain and irritation upon contact.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if touched
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How often should I water Mammillaria tetrancistra?
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: Can I grow Mammillaria tetrancistra indoors?
A: Yes, it can be grown indoors in a well-lit area with good air circulation.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Cactaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during growi |
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