Cylindrical Pincushion Cactus

The Cylindrical Pincushion Cactus, scientifically known as Mammillaria elongata, is a small and visually appealing cactus native to Central Mexico. It's part of the diverse Mammillaria genus, known for its pincushion-like appearance.

Mammillaria elongata typically grows to about 6 to 12 inches in height and has a spread of 6 inches to 1 foot. The cactus forms elongated, cylindrical stems, which often grow in dense clusters, creating a cushion-like effect. The stems are covered in small, white spines, which are densely packed and give the plant a soft, fuzzy appearance.

One of the charming aspects of the Cylindrical Pincushion Cactus is its flowers. This cactus produces small, bell-shaped flowers that can be pink, red, or yellow. The flowers usually appear in a ring near the top of the stems in spring and early summer, adding a splash of color to the plant.

This cactus prefers full sun to partial shade and thrives in well-draining cactus soil. It's a drought-tolerant plant and should be watered sparingly, allowing the soil to dry out completely between waterings.

Mammillaria elongata is well-suited for rock gardens, cactus gardens, and as a container plant. Its compact size and attractive growth habit make it a popular choice for windowsill gardens and indoor plant collections. In colder climates, it should be kept indoors or in a greenhouse during the winter to protect it from frost.

Overall, the Cylindrical Pincushion Cactus is a low-maintenance and attractive plant, perfect for adding a touch of desert beauty to any setting. Its unique form, spiny texture, and colorful flowers make it a favorite among cactus enthusiasts and gardeners looking for an easy-to-care-for and visually interesting plant.

Three Timbers Installation Guide (Feel Free to Follow): Cylindrical Pincushion Cactus

Planting Guide:

• Location: Full sun (at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily for optimal growth)
• Soil: Well-drained, rocky or sandy soil (slightly acidic to neutral soil preferred)
• Spacing: Space plants 2-3 feet apart to accommodate the cactus’s spread as it matures
• Planting Depth: Plant at the same depth as the root ball, ensuring the top of the root ball is level with the surrounding soil surface
• Support: Cylindrical Pincushion Cactus requires no staking and grows upright with distinctive, cylindrical columns

Watering Guide:

Watering After Planting:

• Initial Watering: Water thoroughly immediately after planting to saturate the root ball and surrounding soil
• Frequency: Water every 3-4 days for the first 2-3 weeks to help establish the root system
• Watering Amount: Provide 1-2 inches of water per session to ensure deep watering

When is the Plant Established?

• Timeframe: Cylindrical Pincushion Cactus is considered established after 3-4 months when the roots have spread into the surrounding soil

Watering Once Established:

• Summer: Water every 14-21 days during the hotter months. If temperatures exceed 100°F, increase watering to every 10-14 days. Provide 2-3 inches of water per session.
• Winter: Water every 4-6 weeks during the cooler months, depending on rainfall.

Drip Irrigation Setup:

• Placement of Emitters: Place the drip emitters 12-18 inches away from the base of the cactus to ensure deep watering
• Flow Rate: Use emitters with a flow rate of 1-2 gallons per hour for slow, deep watering
• Number of Emitters: 1 emitter per plant for even watering distribution
• Adjusting Frequency: Increase watering frequency in the summer to every 10-14 days, and reduce watering in winter to every 4-6 weeks