Thimble cactus (Mammillaria vetula)

Thimble cactus

Thimble cactus is well suited to container growth because of its diminutive size and the way it spreads out in an appealing cluster. This Mexican native cactus can be found wild at high altitudes beneath pine forests. Its small rounded shape gives rise to the common name 'thimble cactus.'

Scientific classification

Species

Thimble cactus (Mammillaria vetula)

Pinks, cacti, and allies

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Perennial

Lifespan

Succulent

Plant Type

Evergreen

Leaf type

Images of Thimble cactus

Quickly Identify Thimble cactus

Compact stature under 6 inches (15 cm) tall.

Dense covering of varying colored spines.

Small, colorful, funnel-shaped flowers up to 1/2 inch (1.3 cm).

Radial, whitish to yellowish, needle-like spines approximately 0.2 to 0.6 inches (5 to 15 mm).

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Care Guide for Thimble cactus

Every 3 weeks

Water

Full sun

Sunlight

20 - 38 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Fertilize: Fertilize thimble cactus once a month with liquid fertilizer during spring, summer, and fall; no winter fertilization is needed. Use nitrogen fertilizer for seedlings and phosphate-potassium before/after blooming, opting for low concentration. Stop fertilization if yellowing occurs due to excess fertilizer.

Pruning: Thimble cactus requires minimal pruning. It is advisable to remove withered flowers and branches to allow the plant to allocate nutrients effectively toward healthy growth.

Propagation: Main propagation methods for thimble cactus include division and grafting. For division, cut lateral branches and replant them to grow new shoots. Grafting involves placing thimble cactus onto a rootstock, allowing the two to unite over 1-2 weeks, after which the binding can be removed.

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Learn More About Thimble cactus

How to Transplant

Benefit

How to Grow and Care

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