Mammillaria spinosissima ‘Un Pico’ is a popular cactus cultivar, appealing to both novice and experienced plant enthusiasts. Its unique appearance and straightforward care make it a favored choice for indoor and outdoor collections.
Identifying Mammillaria Spinosissima ‘Un Pico’
The cultivar name ‘Un Pico’ translates to “one peak” or “one spine” in Spanish, referencing its defining characteristic: each areole typically produces a single, prominent central spine. This distinguishes it from other Mammillaria spinosissima varieties, which often feature multiple spines per areole. This nursery cultivar originated from a stable genetic mutation of the wild Mammillaria spinosissima species, native to Mexico.
This cactus exhibits a columnar growth habit, appearing as a solitary stem or slowly forming small clusters. It reaches a height of up to 30 centimeters (12 inches) and a width of about 10 centimeters (4 inches). The stem is a dark blue-green, with ovate, conical tubercles that are slightly woolly in their axils. The central spine ranges from 10 to 30 millimeters long, and notably, this cultivar lacks radial spines. In spring, a crown of small, cup-shaped flowers, typically pink or reddish-purple, emerges around the apex, followed by small red or greenish fruits.
Essential Care for Your Cactus
Light Requirements
Mammillaria spinosissima ‘Un Pico’ thrives in bright conditions and ample sunlight. It performs well in direct sun, benefiting from at least four hours of daily sun exposure. Intense light encourages more vibrant spine coloration and promotes flowering. In regions with hot, dry climates, providing afternoon shade during peak sun hours can prevent scorching.
Watering Techniques
This cactus is adapted to dry conditions, requiring low water. Overwatering is a common issue leading to root rot, so allow the soil to dry out completely between waterings. During its active growing season in spring and summer, water moderately, ensuring the soil is dry before the next application. In cooler winter months, reduce watering significantly or suspend it entirely to prevent rot, especially if the plant is kept in a cool environment. Ensure water never stands around the plant’s roots.
Soil and Potting
A well-draining soil mix is important for the health of Mammillaria spinosissima ‘Un Pico’. A specialized cactus or succulent mix is suitable, or you can create one by combining sand with compost, or by adding mineral grit such as pumice, perlite, or lava gravel. This cactus tolerates being root-bound and can remain in the same pot for several years. When repotting becomes necessary, typically every two to three years or when the plant outgrows its container, it is best done in spring during its active growth period. Always choose a pot with drainage holes to facilitate proper water runoff.
Temperature and Humidity
Mammillaria spinosissima ‘Un Pico’ prefers warm conditions, ideally between 16-25°C (61-77°F) during its active growing phase. It tolerates cold, withstanding temperatures down to approximately -1°C (30°F). However, it requires protection from freezing temperatures to avoid damage. During its dormant winter period, it can tolerate cooler temperatures, around 5-15°C (41-59°F), particularly if the soil is kept completely dry. This cultivar prefers low atmospheric humidity, especially during dormancy.
Fertilization
Fertilization should be applied sparingly to Mammillaria spinosissima ‘Un Pico’ during its spring and summer growing season. A balanced, water-soluble cactus fertilizer is appropriate. Some growers opt for a formula higher in potassium and phosphorus, with lower nitrogen, to support robust growth without making the plant overly soft.
Fertilize every two to three weeks when actively growing, or dilute the fertilizer and apply it once a year in summer. If recently repotted, no fertilization is needed for the first year. Cease fertilization from September onwards to avoid weakening the plant’s tissues as it prepares for dormancy.
Propagating Mammillaria Spinosissima ‘Un Pico’
Propagating Mammillaria spinosissima ‘Un Pico’ can be achieved through two primary methods: offsets or seeds. Offsets, also known as pups, are small plantlets that grow from the base of the parent cactus. To propagate using offsets, carefully remove them from the main plant and allow them to dry for a few days until the cut end forms a callus. Once calloused, plant the offset in a well-draining cactus mix and water sparingly until roots establish, then gradually increase watering as the new plant grows.
Seed propagation is also an option, though it requires more patience due to the slow growth rate of cacti. Sow the tiny seeds in a well-draining cactus soil mix, ensuring the medium remains consistently moist but not waterlogged. Provide bright, indirect light and a humid environment until the seedlings have developed a robust root system. Both propagation methods are best undertaken in spring or early summer, aligning with the plant’s active growth period.
Common Challenges and Solutions
Overwatering is the most frequent challenge for Mammillaria spinosissima ‘Un Pico’, often leading to root rot. Symptoms include mushy stems, yellowing foliage, or soft spots on the plant. If these signs appear, immediately reduce watering frequency and verify that the soil mixture drains effectively. Rot can rapidly spread, requiring prompt action.
This cactus is resistant to pests when maintained in healthy conditions. However, occasional infestations of mealybugs or red spider mites can occur. Mealybugs appear as small, cottony masses on the plant’s surface, while spider mites cause discolored or dry patches. If pests are observed, isolate the affected plant and treat it with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Sunburn is another issue, appearing as whitish discoloration or browning on the plant’s exposed areas, especially if moved too quickly from shade to intense direct sun. Gradual acclimation to brighter light or providing partial shade during peak sun hours can prevent this damage.