Also known as Lemon Ball Cactus
Mammillaria rhodantha, the Rainbow Pincushion, is a striking small cactus with a cylindrical to globular stem adorned with rosy pink flowers.
At-a-glance light, water, soil, and growing conditions from plant data
Prefers bright, direct sunlight.
75% intensity
Can tolerate partial shade, but may flower less. Protect from intense afternoon sun in very hot climates.
Allow soil to dry completely between waterings.
25% intensity
Reduce watering in winter; avoid waterlogging.
Sandy, Well-draining
50% intensity
Average room temperatures to warm.
50% intensity
Ideal range is 20-30°C during the growing season. Can tolerate cooler temperatures (10-15°C) in winter dormancy.
Light feeding during growing season.
25% intensity
Use diluted cactus fertilizer monthly from spring to summer. Do not fertilize in autumn and winter.
Safety information from plant toxicity data
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Toxic for humans | No 0/5 intensity |
| Toxic for pets | No 0/5 intensity |
Non-toxic to pets and humans.
Key traits and growing stats from plant data
Watering, pruning, propagation, and repotting details from plant data
Water thoroughly when the soil is completely dry, typically every 2-4 weeks during the growing season. Reduce watering significantly in winter to prevent root rot.
Ensure good drainage to avoid waterlogging, as this cactus is sensitive to overwatering.
Pruning is generally not required for Mammillaria rhodantha. Remove any dead or damaged stems or flowers as they appear. If the plant becomes too large, offsets can be removed and propagated.
Minimal intervention is best to maintain its natural shape.
Propagate by offsets (pups) that form at the base of the plant. Carefully detach offsets with a clean knife when they are large enough to handle.
Allow the cut surface to callus over for a few days before planting in well-draining cactus mix.
Repot every 2-3 years, or when the plant outgrows its pot. Use a well-draining cactus or succulent mix. Choose a pot that is only slightly larger than the current one.
Repot in spring before active growth begins, handling the spiny plant with care.
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Monthly activity intensity for bloom and fruit across both hemispheres.
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Photos of Rainbow Pincushion (Mammillaria rhodantha)
Where Rainbow Pincushion (Mammillaria rhodantha) is found
Density
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Common names and botanical synonyms
Botanical classification
| Rank | Name |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Division | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Caryophyllales |
| Family | Cactaceae |
| Genus | Mammillaria |
| Species | Mammillaria rhodantha |
Similar in genus Mammillaria
Answers based on plant encyclopedia data
