Scientific Name:

Mammillaria albiflora

Common name:

Family:

Cactaceae

Sub-Family:

Cactoideae

Tribe:

Cacteae

Genus:

Mammillaria

Origin:

Mexico

Hardiness Zone:

13b

9b

ABout the PLant

Mammillaria albiflora is a small, globular cactus native to the Chihuahuan Desert of Mexico. It grows up to 8 inches (20 cm) tall and has an equal spread, making it an ideal choice for succulent gardens or rockeries. The stems are light green in color and covered with white wool and short spines. The flowers of Mammillaria albiflora are creamy white in color and have yellow centers. They appear in clusters at the top of the plant during the spring months, adding a splash of color to any garden. The leaves are also light green in color and grow in spirals around the stem. Caring for Mammillaria albiflora is relatively easy; it prefers bright sunlight but can tolerate some shade, as well as dry conditions with occasional watering. During its dormant period from late fall to early spring, water should be reduced even further. Fertilizer should be applied sparingly during the growing season only. This species has been cultivated since Victorian times when it was first introduced into Europe from Mexico by botanist George Engelmann in 1845. Since then, it has become popular among gardeners due to its low maintenance requirements and attractive blooms.

Mammillaria albiflora succulents need bright indirect light for most of the day, with some direct light in the morning or late afternoon. They should not be exposed to too much direct sunlight, as this can cause sunburn and damage the leaves. Low light is also acceptable, but it may lead to slower growth and fewer flowers.

Mammillaria albiflora succulents thrive in well-draining, sandy soil with a pH of 6.5 to 7.5. They prefer soils that are high in organic matter and slightly acidic, so adding some compost or aged manure to the soil can help provide the necessary nutrients for healthy growth. Additionally, they should be watered regularly but allowed to dry out between waterings.

Mammillaria albiflora succulents should be watered lightly and infrequently, allowing the soil to dry out completely between waterings. They prefer a watering schedule of about once every 2-3 weeks during the growing season, and once a month in winter. Be sure not to overwater as this can cause root rot.

The ideal humidity conditions for the Mammillaria albiflora succulent is between 40-50%. This means that the air should not be too dry or too humid. The best way to maintain this level of humidity is to mist the plant regularly and keep it away from any drafts or sources of heat.