Madison Pincushion Cactus
matucana madisoniorum
Also known as: ["Madison's Pincushion","Madison's Matucana"]
Overview
A globular cactus species native to Peru, known for its dense spines and vibrant magenta flowers.
Benefits & Perks
["fragrant flowers","rare/collector’s item","drought tolerant"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Caryophyllales |
| Family: | Cactaceae |
| Genus: | Matucana |
| Botanical Name: | Matucana madisoniorum |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Succulents & Cacti
- Suitable Location: indoor pot in a bright location with protection from intense afternoon sun
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"10–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"10–12"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining cactus or succulent mix with added perlite or coarse sand.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically every 1–2 years or when dead growth is present.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate; remove only dead, damaged, or overgrown stems.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light or filtered sunlight for 4–6 hours daily. Can tolerate direct morning sun but should be protected from intense afternoon sun, especially in summer.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to direct sunlight to prevent scorching; place in a spot with morning sun and afternoon shade; for indoor plants, use a south-facing window with sheer curtains.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
bright, indirect light or partial shade
Rotate plant weekly for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter harsh sunlight; avoid west-facing exposure in summer.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce to every 3–4 weeks in winter
Water deeply but infrequently; ensure soil dries fully between waterings; avoid waterlogging during dormancy.
Soil
well-draining cactus mix with added perlite or pumice
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Ensure pots have drainage holes; use a mix with large particles for aeration; avoid organic matter that retains too much moisture.
Temperature
Prefers temperatures between 18–24°C (64–75°F) during active growth. Tolerates mild frosts but thrives in warm, dry conditions.
Avoid sudden temperature fluctuations; protect from frost; ensure good air circulation in hot weather.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during active growth with a balanced cactus fertilizer
Fertilize only when actively growing; avoid over-fertilizing to prevent salt buildup; flush soil occasionally to remove excess salts.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or offsets (pups).
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Select a healthy offset or stem cutting.
- Let the cut end callous for 1–2 days.
- Plant in well-draining medium.
- Water sparingly until roots form.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm (21–27°C), humid (50–60%), and bright indirect light with protection from direct sun.
Medium
Well-draining mix of cactus soil and perlite (1:1 ratio).
Hormone
Optional, but recommended for faster rooting.
Timeline
Roots may form in 4–8 weeks; establish in new pot after 3–6 months.
Tools Needed
Clean knife or scissors, rooting hormone (optional), well-draining medium, small pot.
Quick Tips
Allow cuttings to callous before planting; use a clear plastic bag to maintain humidity; avoid overwatering during rooting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Cut stems cleanly with a sharp, sterile tool; allow cut surfaces to callous before handling or repotting.
Pruning Plan
Minimal pruning; focus on removing dead or damaged stems to maintain shape and health.
Tools
Sterile pruning shears or a sharp knife.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune during dry weather; remove only necessary stems; allow cuts to callous.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before the active growing season begins.
Pot Size
One size up (e.g., from 4-inch to 6-inch pot); ensure the new pot has drainage holes.
Method
Gently remove the plant; trim any dead roots; repot in a slightly larger container with fresh, well-draining cactus mix; avoid watering for a week to prevent rot.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when the plant outgrows its container, as it prefers slightly root-bound conditions.
Checklist
Use fresh cactus mix; ensure good drainage; handle roots carefully; avoid watering immediately after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water deeply; ensure drainage; adjust frequency by season; avoid wetting foliage.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the root zone until water drains from the bottom, ensuring even saturation without pooling. Water in the morning to allow foliage to dry before nightfall.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water thoroughly during the growing season (spring and summer), allowing the soil to dry out completely between waterings. Reduce watering significantly in fall and cease entirely during winter dormancy.
Soil Improvement
Add coarse sand, perlite, or pumice to commercial potting soil to enhance drainage; avoid heavy clay soils.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Chlorosis or purpling of stems, stunted growth, or soft, mushy stems (cold stress); wilting despite moist soil, brown or crispy pads (heat stress).
Cold Stress
Low temperatures slow metabolic processes, leading to waterlogging and root rot even if soil is not excessively wet.
Solution: Move to a warmer location above 10°C (50°F); reduce watering; ensure excellent drainage; use a heat mat if necessary.
Hot Stress
Excessive heat can cause dehydration, sunburn, and wilting, even if the soil is moist, due to rapid transpiration.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity with misting or a pebble tray; water early in the morning; ensure good air circulation.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use cactus-specific fertilizer; dilute properly; fertilize during growing season only; avoid contact with roots.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, water-soluble cactus fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during the growing season (spring and summer). Do not fertilize in fall or winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicMatucana madisoniorum is not known to be toxic to cats. The plant does not contain compounds that are harmful to felines, and ingestion is not expected to cause adverse physiological effects.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Non-toxicMatucana madisoniorum is not known to be toxic to dogs. There are no documented cases or studies indicating that ingestion of this plant causes adverse effects in canines.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Non-toxicMatucana madisoniorum is not known to exhibit toxic properties to humans. The plant does not contain known toxic compounds that would cause adverse physiological effects upon ingestion.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How often should I water Matucana madisoniorum?
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, indirect light or partial sun, but avoid intense midday sun.
Q: Why are the spines falling off my Matucana?
A: This may indicate overwatering, physical damage, or sudden temperature changes. Ensure proper care and handling.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Cactaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | bright, indirect light or part |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
Get Expert Care Tips
Download the Plantious app for personalized care reminders and plant identification!
Google Play App Store
