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Basic Info
Mammillaria Gracilis is also known as the ‘Thimble Cactus’. As the plant matures you can expect it to reach up to around 10 cm (4″) tall and 5 cm (2″) in diameter. The plants main feature are the green looking stems covered by fine white hair and small spines. When it flowers you can expect it to produce white colored flowers.
Care and Propagation Information
Watering
Mammillaria Gracilis ‘Thimble Cactus’ can be quite beautiful when it is well-taken care off. This succulent type needs typical watering as the other succulents. The watering method is very important to keep your Thimble Cactus healthy. It should not sit on the water, and an excess amount of water should be avoided. The best way of watering is soak and dry method this succulent. Yet, the succulent should be controlled to avoid overwatering.
General Care for Mammillaria Gracilis ‘Thimble Cactus’
This succulent type is the perfect succulent for people who are just starting to grow their own plants. It can be grown indoors and outdoors with ease.
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Quick Facts:
- Prefers full sun
- Can be grown outdoor
- Grows 10 cm (4″) tall
- Grows up to 5 cm (2″) wide
- Can die easily if overwatered see: How to Water Succulent Plants
- Does not handle cold well
- Prefers Zone 10a -1.1 °C (20 F)
- Best propagated by seeds and offsets
- Generally not known to be harmful for people or animals
- Dormant during winter
Where to Plant
Mammillaria Gracilis ‘Thimble Cactus’ succulents need strong light. When planting this succulent type in a garden, make sure it gets sunlight. Full to partial sun is the best for its growth. It is better to grow outdoor rather than indoor.
This type of succulent prefers a warm climate. It can survive at zone 10a which is around -1.1 °C (20 °F). If you live in a cold area, it is better to plant Thimble Cactus in an indoor environment. As long as it gets enough sunlight, the plant will grow happily.
How to Propagate Mammillaria Gracilis ‘Thimble Cactus’
A thimble Cactus can be propagated by seeds and offsets. This succulent type does not require repotting often. Of course, the first-time repotting is essential when it is bought from the store.
Like all the other succulent types, a well-drained soil mixture is essential. If you want to know about well-drained soil mixtures, check How to Prepare Well-drained Soil for Succulent Plants.
How to Propagate Mammillaria Gracilis ‘Thimble Cactus’ From Offsets
Thimble Cactus propagates from offsets. To be able to propagate from the mother plant, you might wait several years for the main plant to produce an offset. To start this process, use a sharp knife and remove an offset from the main plant. When you remove the offset, clean the extra soil from it. Before replanting, wait for a few days to allow it to callous. Use well-draining soil for your new succulent plant. Don’t forget to water when the soil dries out.
How to Propagate Thimble Cactus Using Seeds
This succulent type is a slow grower so even if it can be propagated by its seeds, this method is not recommended. To propagate from the seeds, plant the seeds in a well-draining soil mixture. This method can be used outdoors. In cooler areas, indoor propagating is recommended.
Are you struggling with propagation? This ebook is a how-to guide created for successful propagation. You will find detailed and helpful information for all the propagation methods. It is suitable for you whether you’re just starting with them or ready to advance your knowledge.
