Mammillaria lauii
A fairly fast-growing, low-growing species of cacti to around 6cm in height, forming large grey-green cylindrical stems, densely covered with soft white spines. Rings of bright pink flowers with yellow centres appear in spring, close to the stems in contrast with the white spines. Easy to grow for those wanting to grow cacti for the first time
Size
Ultimate height
Up to 10cmTime to ultimate height
2–5 yearsUltimate spread
0.1–0.5 metresGrowing conditions
Moisture
Well–drainedpH
Acid, Alkaline, NeutralColour & scent
| Stem | Flower | Foliage | Fruit | |
| Spring | Green Grey Silver White | Pink | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Summer | Green Grey Silver White | |||
| Autumn | Green Grey Silver White | |||
| Winter | Green Grey Silver White |
Position
- Full sun
Aspect
South–facing or West–facing
Exposure
Sheltered Hardiness
H2Botanical details
- Family
- Cactaceae
- Native to GB / Ireland
- No
- Foliage
- Evergreen
- Habit
- Clump forming
- Genus
Mammillaria are spiny cacti with spherical or columnar stems, often in clusters, with many prominent tubercles, and funnel-shaped flowers usually in a ring near the apex of the stem
- Name status
Unresolved
How to grow
Cultivation
Grow in cactus compost in full light. From midspring to early autum water moderately and apply a half-strength balanced liquid fertiliser monthly; keep completely dry at other times. See houseplant cacti and succulent cultivation for further information
Propagation
Propagate by stem or leaf cuttings in spring or early summer. Separate offsets in spring
Suggested planting locations and garden types
- Houseplants
- Patio and container plants
- Conservatory and greenhouse
Pruning
No pruning required
Pests
May be susceptible to scale insects and mealybugs
Diseases
Generally disease-free
Get involved
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