Mammillaria winterae, commonly known as Winter's Pincushion, is a small, globular cactus native to desert and dry shrubland climates. It belongs to the Cactaceae family and the Mammillaria genus. This succulent subshrub is known for its dense clusters of spines and small, pink flowers that bloom in the spring. It undergoes a dormancy period during the winter months.
Mammillaria winterae thrives in bright, direct sunlight and prefers warm temperatures. It is well-suited to dry conditions and requires minimal watering. Ensure the plant is kept in a low-humidity environment to mimic its natural habitat. This cactus is relatively easy to care for and can be grown both indoors and outdoors.
土壤
Mammillaria winterae prefers sandy soil with excellent drainage. A cactus or succulent soil mix is ideal, as it prevents water from pooling around the roots, which can lead to rot. Ensure the soil dries out completely between waterings to maintain the plant's health.
肥料
Use a balanced cactus fertilizer with a nutrient composition of 2-7-7 during the growing season. Fertilize sparingly, about once a month, to provide the necessary nutrients without overfeeding the plant.
换盆
Repot Mammillaria winterae every 2-3 years or when it outgrows its current pot. Choose a slightly larger pot with good drainage. Gently remove the plant from its old pot, shake off excess soil, and place it in the new pot with fresh cactus soil mix.
传播
Mammillaria winterae can be propagated through offsets or seeds. Offsets can be carefully removed from the parent plant and allowed to dry for a few days before planting in a well-draining soil mix. Seeds can be sown in a sandy soil mix and kept in a warm, bright location until they germinate.
修剪
Pruning is generally not required for Mammillaria winterae. However, you can remove any dead or damaged parts to maintain the plant's appearance and health.
毒性
Mammillaria winterae is not toxic to pets or humans. However, its spines can cause minor injuries if handled carelessly, so it's best to handle the plant with care.