Emm's Plant House

Mammillaria spinossimo 'Un pico' Ø12cm

£12.00 GBP

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Pot Size Ø12cm

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Mammillaria spinossima 'Un Pico' is a stunning and unique cactus variety from the Mammillaria genus. Known for its distinct, conical shape and long, needle-like spines, this cactus is often recognized by the dense, white spines that cover its body, giving it a "pico" (spike) appearance. The plant produces small, vibrant pink or magenta flowers that bloom around the crown, adding a pop of color to its otherwise spiky appearance. This slow-growing cactus makes a great addition to any cactus collection due to its distinctive look and minimal care requirements.

Full Botanical Name: Mammillaria spinossima 'Un Pico'
Common Names: Un Pico Cactus, Spine-covered Mammillaria
Country and/or Region of Origin: Native to Mexico
Growing Conditions in Native Habitat: Grows in dry, rocky soils in arid regions with full sun exposure and minimal rainfall

Care Guide

Care Guide:

Light: Prefers bright, direct sunlight. It thrives in full sun but can tolerate partial shade, especially in extremely hot climates. However, too much shade can reduce blooming and overall health.

Ideal Room: Suitable for sunny windowsills, patios, or outdoor cactus gardens. It can also be grown indoors in a bright location or under grow lights if sunlight is limited.

Feeding: Fertilize sparingly, once every 4-6 weeks during the growing season (spring to summer) with a diluted cactus or succulent fertilizer to encourage healthy growth and vibrant blooms.

Humidity: Tolerates dry air and is ideal for homes with low humidity, similar to its native environment.

Ideal Temperature: Best kept between 70°F and 85°F (21°C to 29°C). It is cold-hardy to about 30°F (-1°C) but should be protected from freezing temperatures to prevent damage.

Watering: Water sparingly. Allow the soil to dry out completely between waterings. Overwatering can lead to root rot, so ensure that the pot has good drainage and never leave it sitting in standing water.

Pet/Child Safe: Toxic to pets and children.

Soil Type: Use a well-draining cactus or succulent mix. A mix containing sand or perlite will help improve drainage and prevent water retention around the roots.

Propagation: Propagate by offsets or stem cuttings. Allow the cuttings to callus over for a few days before planting them in dry, well-draining soil to encourage rooting.

Eventual Height and Spread: Typically grows up to 6-8 inches (15-20 cm) tall, with a spread of about 4-6 inches (10-15 cm), making it a compact cactus perfect for small spaces or containers.

Growth Rate: Slow-growing. It may take several years to reach full size, but once it reaches maturity, it can produce beautiful pink flowers during the blooming season.

Pests and Treatment: Generally resistant to pests, but it may occasionally attract mealybugs or aphids. Treat any infestations with insecticidal soap or neem oil to prevent damage.

Repotting: Repot every 2-3 years or when the plant becomes root-bound. Choose a pot with good drainage to ensure healthy root growth and prevent waterlogged conditions.

Pruning: Prune dead or damaged stems to maintain the plant’s appearance. Minimal pruning is necessary, but removing damaged growth can help the plant thrive.

Air Purification: While not specifically known for air-purifying qualities, Mammillaria spinossima 'Un Pico' adds an exotic, natural touch to your home or office with its unique spiky appearance.

Folklore: Cacti, including Mammillaria species, are often considered symbols of strength and resilience. Mammillaria spinossima 'Un Pico' is thought to represent endurance, as it thrives in harsh, dry conditions where many other plants would not survive.

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