Mammillaria blossfeldiana - 10 seeds

Mammillaria blossfeldiana is a rather small plant, usually solitary or slowly branching, with superb showy flowers.

The distinctive feature of the genus is the possession of an areole split into two clearly separated parts, one occurring at the apex of the tubercle, the other at its base. The apex part is spine bearing, and the base part is always spineless, but usually bears some bristles or wool. The base part of the areole bears the flowers and fruits, and is a branching point. The apex part of the areole does not carry flowers, but in certain conditions can function as a branching point as well.

HOW TO GROW?

Like most hooked spined species from Baja California, this plant isn't noted for being easy to cultivate, but in good conditions with excellent ventilation, it grows without difficulty. It is especially sensitive to overwatering, so careful watering and an open mineral potting soil are a must to extend the life of this species. Avoid the use of peat or other humus sources in the potting mixture. Don't add limestone to the potting mix, which must be moderately acidic. It can be sensitive to frost. It requires maximum sun exposure to reach its full potential and to achieve success in flowering. A winter rest that allows the plant to shrivel (perhaps losing up to 25% of its summer height) will encourage flowering and long-time survival. Be careful to encourage slow growth. The careful grower will be rewarded with generous numbers of large white and pink flowers.