Ladyfinger cactus

Ladyfinger cactus Care

Mammillaria elongata

What is the plant

Mammillaria elongata (Ladyfinger cactus) is a succulent plant from the genus Mammillaria of the Cactaceae family. It grows on rocks in the Mexican states of Hidalgo, Guanajuato, and Queretaro. This greenie is one of the most popular indoor plants.

Ladyfinger cactus has a branching, elongated cylindrical stem. The stem length can reach up to 6 inches (15 cm). The number of spines from one areole ranges from 14 to 25. They are usually yellow, sometimes dark brown. The flowers are pale yellow and clustered around the top of the plant. Mammillaria also produces fruit.

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Humidity

Dry

Lighting

Part Sun

Temperature

10°C - 12°C

Hardiness zone

9a - 11b

Difficulty

Easy

Hibernation

Cold Period

How to Care for the Plant

Water
Ladyfinger cactus requires minimal moisture. In the summer, you can water up to 3-4 times a month. In the fall, you should reduce watering to twice a month. In winter, water the plant a maximum of once a month. Remember, cacti do not tolerate excess moisture in the soil well.
Pruning
This plant does not require special pruning. Do not remove the affected part if your Ladyfinger has shown diseases or pests! You can harm your green pet this way. It is better to treat your cactus with a special solution.
Fertilizer
You can fertilize your Ladyfinger cactus in spring and summer with a special cactus fertilizer. Do this no more than once a month. Typically, this tough greenie doesn't need feeding at all!

Disease diagnosis

Check your plant’s health

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Sunlight
This cactus is photophilous. However, prolonged exposure to direct sunlight can damage it. It will thrive in a partially shaded place. We recommend placing your green pet next to an east- or west-facing window.
Soil
You can use ready-made soil for cacti. To prepare the potting mix yourself, use turf, peat, and leaf soil in equal proportions. You can also add some coarse river sand and crushed bricks.
Propagation
Mammillaria elongata propagates by seeds and side sprouts. Propagation by sprouts is a more efficient and convenient way. However, experienced flower growers typically grow Ladyfinger cactus from seeds to avoid damage to the mother plant.

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Temperature
Despite its southern appearance, Mammillaria elongata does not like high temperatures. In the summer, the most suitable range is 68-73°F (20-23°C). In winter, the temperature should be around 50-53°F (10-12°C).
Container
The material of the container is not important. The pot for Mammillaria elongata should be shallow but wide, as this type of cactus forms an extensive root system that does not penetrate deep into the soil. Each next pot should be slightly larger than the previous one. Don't forget to ensure your vessel has drainage holes!
Fun fact
If the cactus lacks light, it stretches and visually becomes thinner.