Mammillaria sphaerica, the longmamma nipple cactus or pale mammillaria is a species of flowering plant in the cactus family Cactaceae, native to south eastern Texas in the USA and north eastern Mexico, where it occurs in scattered patches at altitudes up to 1,000 m (3,300 ft). It forms clumps of small pale green spheres (whence sphaerica) to 5 cm (2.0 in) in diameter, with short hairs and pale yellow flowers up to 3 cm (1.2 in) wide in summer. Its status is listed as “Least Concern” by the IUCN Red List.It tolerates temperatures down to 1 °C (34 °F), but not being frozen. As it also requires dry conditions during winter, it is best grown under glass in temperate zones, in a typical free-draining, low nutrient cactus compost, in full sun. This plant has won the Royal Horticultural Society’s Award of Garden Merit.
Longmamma nipple cactus has strong resistance to diseases and can handle typical care routines without becoming sick easily. That said, it can be prone to mealybugs, which may inflict some damage but are usually not a major danger. Regarding care, Longmamma nipple cactus is drought-tolerant and does not require frequent watering. It can endure extended intervals without water and needs little fertilizer. On the other hand, it is very vulnerable to root rot if kept in poor light and given too much water. In general, Longmamma nipple cactus is a good choice for people who prefer low-maintenance plants, though it remains important to know and meet its basic needs. It is especially appropriate for those who are away for long periods and might forget to water regularly.
How to keep Mammillaria Sphaerica.
Light
Originating from arid areas, the Longmamma nipple cactus does best in full sun, as its native habitat features strong sunlight and little shade. It can also tolerate partial sun, giving it some flexibility in how it grows.
Temperature
Although Longmamma nipple cactus tolerates some heat, it mainly does best in cooler seasons and becomes dormant in summer. In hot summer weather, give it shade to avoid scorching from strong sunlight. Watering should be reduced or stopped during the hottest period to prevent root rot. It grows vigorously in winter and spring. As long as temperatures do not fall too low, it will continue to grow steadily.
Fertilizer
For Longmamma nipple cactus, light doses of fertilizer 1-2 times a year during the growing season are enough. Avoid fertilizing in winter and in summer when the plant is dormant. Cut back on fertilizer for repotted plants and wait a couple of months after repotting before you start feeding again. Fertilizing promotes healthy growth and helps stimulate blooms.
Pot & Repot
Repot the Longmamma nipple cactus in spring or summer, picking a pot slightly larger than the existing one that provides good drainage. Use a sandy or gritty cactus mix that drains well. Handle the plant carefully to avoid the spikes. Let the cactus dry out before repotting to help prevent root rot. After repotting, wait a week before watering so the roots can heal.
Botanical profile.
- Plant Type
- Succulent
- Life Cycle
- Perennial
- Genus
- Mammillaria
- Family
- Cactaceae
- Hardiness Zone
- 9-11
- Mature Height
- 11 cm
- Mature Spread
- 10 cm
- Leaf Color
- Light Green, Dark Green
- Leaf Type
- Evergreen
- Flower Color
- Pink, Lavender
- Flower Size
- 2.03 cm to 3.05 cm
- Bloom Time
- Mid spring, Late spring, Early summer
- Planting Time
- Spring, Summer
- Harvest Time
- Mid summer, Late summer, Early fall
Other names.
