Scientific Name
Mammillaria zeilmanniana 'Albiflora'
Synonym(s)
Mammillaria zeilmanniana f. albiflora
Scientific Classification
Family: Cactaceae
Subfamily: Cactoideae
Tribe: Cacteae
Subtribe: Cactinae
Genus: Mammillaria
Description
Mammillaria zeilmanniana 'Albiflora' is an attractive small cactus that forms clumps of glossy green stems with oval tubercles, each tipped with a cluster of spines. The stems can grow up to 4.8 inches (12 cm) tall and 3.2 inches (8 cm) in diameter. Each areole bears 4 reddish central spines (the upper three straight, the lowest hooked) and 15 to 18 white, hair-like radial spines. The areoles are woolly when young.
Rings of white flowers with yellowish stigmas are present most of the year.
Origin
Mammillaria zeilmanniana 'Albiflora' is a form of Mammillaria zeilmanniana selected for its white flowers. It is not known to exist in the wild.
Hardiness
USDA hardiness zone 9a to 11b: from 20 °F (−6.7 °C) to 50 °F (+10 °C).
How to Grow and Care
If you can grow cacti and succulents successfully, you can likely grow the popular Mammillaria without too much trouble. To encourage better flowering, allow the plants to enjoy a cooling period in the winter and suspend watering. Unlike many other cacti, which use their ribs as storage devices, the Mammillaria feature raised tubercles, from which spines emerge. When you water, the tubercles will expand for increased water storage. The flowers emerge from the axils of these tubercles on the previous year's growth, which accounts for their interesting halo effect. The cactus mustn't be exposed to prolonged dampness and sitting water. Never let your cactus sit in a dish of water. Lastly, ensure fertilizer during the growing season for the best results.
Repot as needed, preferably during the warm season. To repot a cactus, ensure the soil is dry before repotting, then gently remove the pot.
See more at How to Grow and Care for Mammillaria.
Links
- Back to genus Mammillaria
- Succupedia: Browse succulents by Scientific Name, Common Name, Genus, Family, USDA Hardiness Zone, Origin, or cacti by Genus
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