Mammillaria polythele
TAXONOMY
FamilyCactaceae
GenusMammillaria
Zone9
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Plants of the World OnlineABOUT
Mammillaria polythele, commonly known as the 'Many-nippled Cactus,' is a species of cactus in the family Cactaceae. It is native to desert and dry shrubland climates, particularly in Mexico. This succulent subshrub is known for its cylindrical shape and numerous tubercles (nipple-like structures) from which its name is derived. It undergoes a dormancy period during the cooler months.
ALSO KNOWN AS
Cactus Affinis
Cactus Niger
Cactus Nudus
Cactus Quadrispinus
Cactus Rhodeocentrus
Cactus Setosus
Cactus Webbianus
Gold Lace Cactus
Stachellos
Cactus hexacanthus
Cactus oothele
Cactus ovimamma
Cactus polythele
Mammillaria affinis
Mammillaria catafracta
Mammillaria columnaris
Mammillaria dolichacantha
Mammillaria echinops
Mammillaria hexacantha
Mammillaria hidalgensis
Mammillaria hoffmannseggii
Mammillaria longispina
Mammillaria multimamma
Mammillaria nigra
Mammillaria nuda
Mammillaria oothele
Mammillaria ovimamma
Mammillaria ovimamma var. oothele
Mammillaria polythele f. quadrispina
Mammillaria polythele var. quadrispina
Mammillaria polythele var. setosa
Mammillaria quadrispina
Mammillaria rhodeocentra
Mammillaria rigidispina
Mammillaria setosa
Mammillaria webbiana
Neomammillaria echinops
Neomammillaria hidalgensis
Neomammillaria hoffmanniana
Neomammillaria polythele
OVERVIEW
WaterVery Dry
SoilSandy
LightDirect Bright (8 Hours)
Temperature25° C
Humidity30%
Dormancy3 Months
pH6.5
Pressure1,013 mbar
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DETAILS
Care Instructions
Mammillaria polythele 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 the cooler months, reduce watering significantly.Soil
This cactus prefers sandy soil with excellent drainage. A cactus or succulent potting mix is ideal. Ensure the soil dries out completely between waterings to prevent root rot.Fertilizer
Fertilize Mammillaria polythele with a balanced cactus fertilizer, such as 5-10-10, during the growing season. Apply the fertilizer sparingly, about once a month, to avoid over-fertilization.Repotting
Repot Mammillaria polythele every 2-3 years or when it outgrows its current pot. Choose a slightly larger pot with good drainage. Handle the plant carefully to avoid damaging its tubercles and roots.Propagation
Propagate Mammillaria polythele through offsets or seeds. Offsets can be removed and planted in a separate pot once they are large enough. Allow the offsets to dry for a few days before planting to prevent rot.Pruning
Pruning is generally not required for Mammillaria polythele. However, you can remove any dead or damaged parts to maintain its appearance.Toxicity
Mammillaria polythele is not known to be toxic to pets or humans. However, it is always best to handle cacti with care to avoid injury from their spines.REVOLUTIONIZE YOUR PLANT CARE
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