Mammillaria Painteri Monstrous Cactus Plant

Mammillaria crinita ssp. crinita "mostruosa"

Origin

Central Maxico

Family

Cactaceae

Description

Mammillaria painteri is characterized by small, spherical mounds that sprout conical or cylindrical tubercles. The globose mounds, or stems, are dark green and can range from one to eight centimeters in height and diameter. In its monstrous form, Mammillaria painteri forma mostruosa, it can grow to be larger than that. The mounds may be clustered together or singular. The crest form - despite to its beauty - is still very rare and sought after by collectors, for its unique features. It also distinguishes from the standard monstrous from which it derives for the more numerous fine bristly spines.

It typically has white or pale light yellow flowers. Rarely, it will sometimes produce light pink or magenta flowers as well. The flowers are shallow and funnel-shaped.

Environment

Mammillaria species like most cacti they're drought tolerant and need very little care and attention to grow well . Plenty of sunshine will keep this cacti more than happy. Provide bright, even light to encourage tight growth and flowering. Some shade during a hot summers day can be helpful to prevent sunburn.

Allow the soil mix to become nearly dry between watering, but then water thoroughly. Suspend watering in the winter, but mist occasionally. Not enough sunlight and over-watering are common mistakes.

Use pot with good drainage and a very porous potting media.

Feed every 4 weeks with a high potassium fertiliser during summer

Landscape Uses

Suited for window sill and dish gardens