Backeberg's Pincushion
mammillaria backebergiana
Also known as: ["Backeberg's Pincushion Cactus","Backeberg's Mammillaria"]
Overview
A small, globular cactus with white spines and pink flowers, native to 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 backebergiana |
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 waterlogging.
- 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 when offsets are large enough to separate.
- Pruning Intensity: Light pruning; focus on removing offsets rather than shaping.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light or full sun for 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
easymoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant weekly for even light; use sheer curtains to filter intense sun; avoid direct midday sun in summer.
Watering
every 7–10 days during growing season, every 3–4 weeks in winter
Water deeply but infrequently; ensure soil dries between waterings; avoid waterlogging.
Soil
fast-draining cactus mix with added perlite or pumice
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Use pots with drainage; avoid peat-heavy soils; ensure soil dries quickly.
Temperature
Prefers 65–85°F (18–29°C); tolerates mild frost but thrives in warm, dry conditions.
Protect from frost; avoid sudden temperature swings; ensure good air circulation.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during active growth with diluted cactus fertilizer
Fertilize only when actively growing; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; use a specialized cactus fertilizer.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or offsets;Offsets are the most reliable method.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Select healthy offset.
- Let cut end dry for a few days.
- Plant in well-draining medium.
- Water sparingly until roots develop.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm, humid environment with indirect light; maintain consistent moisture.
Medium
Cactus mix with added perlite for drainage.
Hormone
Optional, but rooting hormone can speed up the process.
Timeline
Roots may form in 2–4 weeks; establish in new pot within 2–3 months.
Tools Needed
Clean knife or scissors, rooting hormone, small pot, cactus mix.
Quick Tips
Use gloves to handle offsets; ensure the medium is sterile; avoid overwatering.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Gently twist offsets to separate; use a clean, sharp knife if necessary.
Pruning Plan
Minimal pruning needed; remove offsets for propagation or to control size.
Tools
Clean knife or scissors, gloves.
Checklist
Wear gloves; sterilize tools; twist gently; allow cut end to dry before replanting.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before the growing season begins.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 1–2 inches in diameter; ensure it has drainage holes.
Method
Remove plant carefully; trim any dead roots; repot in fresh cactus mix with good drainage; water lightly after repotting.
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 proper drainage; water sparingly post-repotting.
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, avoiding the plant's spines and 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
Wilting, yellowing, or shriveling in cold; sunburn or bleaching 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; use a heat mat if necessary.
Hot Stress
Can lead to dehydration, sunburn, or etiolation if not provided with adequate water and shade.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase watering frequency; use a mister to cool the environment.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check growth phase; dilute fertilizer; apply to moist soil; avoid winter feeding.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced cactus fertilizer diluted to half strength; apply monthly during growing season (spring/summer); avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicMammillaria backebergiana is not known to be toxic to cats. The plant poses no significant risk if ingested or handled by cats.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Dogs
Non-toxicMammillaria backebergiana is not known to be toxic to dogs. The plant poses no significant risk if ingested or handled by dogs.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Humans
Non-toxicMammillaria backebergiana is not known to have toxic effects on humans. The plant is generally considered safe for handling and consumption, though ingestion is not recommended.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How often should I water Mammillaria backebergiana?
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 backebergiana 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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