Mammillaria elongata – Golden Star Cactus

Mammillaria elongata – Golden Star Cactus

Mammillaria elongata, native to central Mexico, is a striking cactus known for its dense clusters of cylindrical stems covered in interwoven golden or copper-coloured spines. Its compact, mat-forming growth habit makes it a favourite among collectors. In spring, it produces delicate pinkish-white flowers, forming a charming crown around the tips of the stems.

Distinctive Features

• Clustering Growth: Forms dense mats of cylindrical stems, each reaching up to 15 cm long and 3 cm thick.
• Golden Spines: Interwoven, soft yet protective spines range from golden-yellow to reddish-brown.
• Spring Blooms: Produces small, pale pink to white funnel-shaped flowers arranged in a circular pattern near the stem tips.

Care Tips

• Light: Prefers bright, indirect light to full sun. Can tolerate partial shade but thrives in direct sunlight.
• Water: Water sparingly, allowing the soil to dry out completely between watering. Reduce watering in winter.
• Humidity: Adapts well to low humidity environments, making it suitable for arid conditions.
• Media: Requires well-draining cactus soil with added sand or perlite to prevent root rot.
• Temperature: Best kept in temperatures between 18-30°C but can tolerate brief dips down to 5°C.
• Fertiliser: Apply a diluted cactus fertiliser monthly during the growing season (spring and summer).
• Repotting: Repot every 2-3 years to refresh the soil and provide room for its expanding clusters.

Additional Notes

• Non-toxic to pets, making it a safe choice for households with animals.
• Slow-growing but readily offsets, making propagation easy via stem cuttings.
• Highly resistant to drought but prone to rot if overwatered.

Mammillaria elongata is an attractive and easy-to-care-for cactus that thrives in bright conditions and requires minimal maintenance. Its beautiful golden spines and charming floral display make it a standout in any succulent collection.