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Mammillaria elongata
Mammillaria elongata
Mammillaria elongata
Mammillaria elongata

Mammillaria elongata

TAXONOMY

FamilyCactaceae
GenusMammillaria
Zone9

ABOUT

Mammillaria elongata, commonly known as Ladyfinger Cactus or Gold Lace Cactus, is a species of cactus in the family Cactaceae. It is native to central Mexico and is known for its elongated, cylindrical stems covered in golden or white spines. This cactus is popular in cultivation due to its attractive appearance and ease of care. It undergoes a dormancy period during the winter months.

ALSO KNOWN AS

Cactus Anguineus
Cactus Densus
Cactus Elongatus
Cactus Minimus
Cactus Pulvilliger
Cactus Rufocroceus
Cactus Subcroceus
Cactus Subechinatus
Echinocactus Densus
Ladyfinger Cactus
Cactus intertextus
Cactus stella-aurata
Cactus tenuis
Chilita elongata
Krainzia elongata
Leptocladia elongata
Leptocladodia elongata
Mammillaria anguinea
Mammillaria anguineea
Mammillaria caespitosa
Mammillaria densa
Mammillaria echinata
Mammillaria elongata f. echinata
Mammillaria elongata f. rufocrocea
Mammillaria elongata f. stella-aurata
Mammillaria elongata f. subcrocea
Mammillaria elongata f. tenuis
Mammillaria elongata var. anguinea
Mammillaria elongata var. densa
Mammillaria elongata var. echinata
Mammillaria elongata var. erecta
Mammillaria elongata var. intertexta
Mammillaria elongata var. minima
Mammillaria elongata var. obscuriora
Mammillaria elongata var. rufescens
Mammillaria elongata var. rufocrocea
Mammillaria elongata var. schmollii
Mammillaria elongata var. stella-aurata
Mammillaria elongata var. subcrocea
Mammillaria elongata var. subechinata
Mammillaria elongata var. tenuis
Mammillaria intertexta
Mammillaria minima
Mammillaria rufocrocea
Mammillaria stella-aurata
Mammillaria stella-aurata var. gracilispina
Mammillaria subcrocea
Mammillaria subcrocea var. echinata
Mammillaria subechinata
Mammillaria tenuis
Mammillaria tenuis var. media
Neomammillaria elongata
Neomammillaria subcrocea
Neomammillaria subcrocea var. echinata

OVERVIEW

WaterVery Dry
SoilSandy
LightDirect Bright (6 Hours)
Temperature24° C
Humidity30%
Dormancy3 Months
pH6
Pressure1,013 mbar

DETAILS

Care Instructions
Mammillaria elongata thrives in bright, direct sunlight and prefers warm temperatures. It is well-suited to dry conditions and does not require high humidity. Water sparingly, allowing the soil to dry out completely between waterings. During its dormancy period in winter, reduce watering significantly.
Soil
This cactus prefers well-draining soil, such as a sandy or cactus mix. Good drainage is essential to prevent root rot. A mix of sand, perlite, and a small amount of organic matter works well.
Fertilizer
Fertilize Mammillaria elongata during the growing season with a balanced cactus fertilizer, such as 5-10-10, diluted to half strength. Apply the fertilizer once a month from spring to early fall.
Repotting
Repot Mammillaria elongata every 2-3 years or when it outgrows its pot. Choose a slightly larger pot with good drainage. Handle the cactus carefully to avoid damaging the spines. Repot during the growing season for best results.
Propagation
Propagate Mammillaria elongata by removing offsets (pups) that form around the base of the plant. Allow the offsets to dry for a few days before planting them in a well-draining cactus mix. Propagation is best done in the spring or early summer.
Pruning
Pruning is generally not required for Mammillaria elongata. However, you can remove any dead or damaged stems to maintain the plant's appearance. Use clean, sharp tools to avoid infection.
Toxicity
Mammillaria elongata is not toxic to pets or humans. However, the spines can cause physical injury if handled carelessly. It is advisable to handle the plant with gloves or use tongs.
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