The Mammillaria hahniana, more commonly known as the Old Lady Cactus, is a species of cactus that belongs to the Mammillaria family. With around 200 species, most of which are native to Mexico, the Mammillaria family is one of the largest in the cactus world.
Etymology
The Mammillaria hahniana is a member of the flower family Mammillaria, which comes from the Latin word mamillus or “little breasts” referring to its bumpy texture. Hahniana is derived from its discoverer, Auguste Hahn.
How to Plant
The Mammillaria hahniana is relatively easy to care for and is suitable for both indoor and outdoor potting. It needs at least 6 hours of sunlight daily and requires a warm climate to thrive. This cactus flower requires sandy and porous soil which should be mixed with cacti fertiliser.
It is important to water the Old Lady Cactus regularly to keep the soil moist but not wet. It is best to water in the morning and wait for the soil to dry before rewatering. It will do well in average humidity but does not tolerate overwatering or low temperatures.
Meaning and Symbolism
The Old Lady Cactus is known for its crown of purple to red flowers that bloom in the summer. This stunning cactus is covered with white spikes and down, adding a tropical touch to your borders and containers. It is a popular choice for planting as it requires minimal care and produces vibrant flowers.
The Old Lady Cactus is a symbol of infinite love and fertility, due to its remarkable ability to retain water, which is essential for sustaining life. It is also believed that the vibrant colors of the flower bring joy and happiness. Due to its unique appearance, it is also a symbol of beauty and courage.
History, Mythology, and Religious Significance
The Old Lady Cactus is native to Mexico and was discovered by Auguste Hahn in the 1800s. This plant has been traditionally used for medicinal purposes, such as wound healing and as an antiseptic. It is also considered to be a symbol of protection in Aztec mythology and is often used as an offering to the gods. In addition, it is also believed to bring good luck and prosperity to the household.
Flower Varieties and Their Defining Characteristics
The Old Lady Cactus is a large genus with over 200 species. A few of the common varieties include:
- Mammillaria fragilis: This is a soft stemmed globose cactus which grows up to 10 cm tall and 10 cm wide. It has a distinctive growth pattern and is covered with white, yellow, purple and red flowers.
- Mammillaria bombycina: This cactus can reach up to 25 cm tall and wide with a globe-like stem, covered with white golden yellow or pinkish spines. It produces yellow or pink flowers in late summer, with a honey-like scent.
- Mammillaria deherdtiana: This is a slow-growing, long-spined cactus that can reach up to 15 cm tall with a diameter of 10 cm. Its stems are covered with white, yellowish and brownish spines and it produces creamy yellow or orange flowers in summer.
- Mammillaria haguei: This globose cactus is a slow-growing species that can reach up to 8 cm tall and 10 cm wide. It has a distinctive dark green stem and bright white spines and it produces a creamy yellow flower.
How to Pot and Repot
Potted cacti should be placed in an area with indirect sunlight, good circulation and temperatures between 70-86°F (20-30°C). When repotting, avoid using containers that are too large. When choosing containers, make sure they have drainage holes, to avoid over-watering.
It is important to use cacti-specific soil when repotting. This soil should be light, well-draining, nutrient-rich and should contain perlite to help the soil drain better. Make sure that you water the cactus sparingly until it is established.
How to Prune
The Old Lady Cactus should be pruned about once a year to encourage bushier growth and healthy plant structure. Pruning should be done in the spring when the plant is actively growing, with each mature stem cut by about one-third. It is important to use sharp scissors to avoid damaging the plant and to keep the pruning shears clean to prevent the spread of disease.
How to Propagate
The Mammillaria hahniana is easy to propagate by using offset. To propagate using offsets, gently twist and remove the offsets from the main stem of the cactus. Allow the offset to dry for a few days until the cut parts are callused. Then, place the offset in well-draining soil and water lightly. The offsets should be established within a few weeks.
Common Pests and Diseases
The Old Lady Cactus is susceptible to common pests such as mealybugs and aphids. The best way to prevent infestation is to keep the cactus healthy and to inspect it regularily. In addition, it is important to avoid overwatering and high humidity to prevent fungal infections.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How do I know when to water my Old Lady Cactus?
A: It is best to water your Old Lady Cactus in the morning and wait for the soil to dry before rewatering.
Q: How should I fertilize the Old Lady Cactus?
A: Fertilize your Old Lady Cactus every two to three months with cacti fertilizer.
Q: Is the Old Lady Cactus prone to pests and diseases?
A: The Old Lady Cactus is prone to common pests such as mealybugs and aphids, and fungal diseases such as root rot. The best way to prevent infestation is to keep the cactus healthy and to inspect it regularly.
Factsheet
| Old Lady Cactus | Mammillaria Hahniana |
|---|---|
| Family | Cactaceae |
| Plant type | Perennial |
| Mature Size | Up to 8 cm tall and 10 cm wide |
| Sun exposure | Full sun to light shade |
| Soil type | Sandy and porous soil |
| Soil pH | 5.6–8.0 (neutral) |
| Bloom time | Summer |
| Flower color | Purple to red |
| Hardiness zones | 9a – 11b |
| Native area | Mexico |
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