Fishbone Cactus
mammillaria uncinata
Also known as: ["Fishbone Cactus","Mammillaria uncinata"]
Overview
A small, cylindrical cactus with distinctive fishbone-like spines and white flowers.
Benefits & Perks
["low maintenance","drought tolerant","aesthetic foliage"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Caryophyllales |
| Family: | Cactaceae |
| Genus: | Mammillaria |
| Botanical Name: | Mammillaria uncinata |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Succulents & Cacti
- Suitable Location: indoor pot with bright, direct light or outdoor in a 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 mix with added perlite or sand.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: low
- Toughness Level: high
- Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically every 1–2 years 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 avoid scorching in intense summer sun.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to intense light; provide shade during peak summer hours; place indoors near a south-facing window if outdoors is too harsh.
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 direct midday sun 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 between waterings; avoid overhead watering.
Soil
fast-draining cactus mix with added perlite or pumice
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (6.0–7.0).
Use terra cotta pots for better drainage; avoid peat-heavy mixes; ensure bottom drainage holes.
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; avoid over-fertilizing; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or offsets (pups); easiest method for home growers.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Cut or remove offset.
- Let callus form (1–2 days).
- Plant in medium.
- Water sparingly until roots form.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm (70–80°F), high humidity (60–70%), indirect light.
Medium
Cactus mix or perlite/sand mixture for excellent drainage.
Hormone
Optional but recommended for faster rooting.
Timeline
Roots develop in 2–4 weeks; establish in 2–3 months.
Tools Needed
Clean knife or scissors, rooting hormone, small pots, cactus mix.
Quick Tips
Use gloves to handle spines; ensure callusing before planting; avoid overwatering.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Twist or cut offsets near the base; use clean tools to prevent infection.
Pruning Plan
Minimal pruning; remove offsets to control size or encourage bushier growth.
Tools
Clean, sharp knife or pruning shears, gloves.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; cut cleanly; allow offsets to callus before replanting.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before active growth begins.
Pot Size
One size larger pot (1–2 inches wider); ensure bottom drainage.
Method
Remove plant carefully; trim roots if needed; repot in fresh cactus mix with good drainage.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; necessary to refresh soil and provide space.
Checklist
Use fresh soil; ensure drainage; handle gently to avoid spine injury.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water deeply; ensure drainage; adjust seasonally.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the soil level, ensuring even saturation of the root zone; allow excess water to drain freely; 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 prevent root rot; increase slightly in summer heat.
Soil Improvement
Add coarse sand or perlite to commercial potting mix; ensure chunky, airy texture.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, yellowing, or shriveling in cold; scorching or sunburn in excessive heat.
Cold Stress
Slows growth, may cause root rot if soil remains wet; can suffer cellular damage below 40°F (4°C).
Solution: Move to a warmer location; ensure soil is dry before cold exposure; use frost cloth for outdoor protection.
Hot Stress
Can dehydrate, develop sunburn, or drop spines in extreme heat; soil may dry too quickly.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase watering frequency; use mulch to retain soil moisture.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use diluted fertilizer; apply during growing season; avoid winter feeding.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced cactus fertilizer diluted to half strength; apply monthly during growing season (spring/summer); cease in fall/winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicMammillaria uncinata is non-toxic to cats. Similar to dogs, ingestion is unlikely to cause systemic toxicity, though spines may lead to mechanical irritation.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if ingested
Dogs
Non-toxicMammillaria uncinata is non-toxic to dogs. Ingestion of the plant material is unlikely to cause systemic toxicity, though spines may cause mechanical irritation.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if ingested
Humans
Non-toxicMammillaria uncinata is generally non-toxic to humans. The primary concern is mechanical irritation from its spines, which can cause minor skin punctures or discomfort.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if touched
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How often should I water Mammillaria uncinata?
A: Water sparingly, allowing the soil to dry out completely between waterings.
Q: Does Mammillaria uncinata require direct sunlight?
A: It thrives in bright, indirect light but can tolerate some direct sun.
Q: Is Mammillaria uncinata 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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