Mammillaria geminispina

Mammillaria geminispina is a type of cactus from the cactaceae family. This plant is native to Mexico and is one of the most species -rich genres of the cacti. It is known for its characteristic, star -shaped thorns and its spherical to cylindrical growth shape. Due to its aesthetic and easy -care properties, the species is often used in decorative plant culture.

Taxonomy and systematics

The genus Mammillaria comprises 147 species that are mainly common in Mexico, but are also common in other parts of North America and South America. The name of the genus comes from the Latin word "Mammilla", which means "little breast", and refers to the wart -like structure of the plant. Mammillaria geminispina was first described in the 19th century and is characterized by her striking thorn structure.

The species is classified in the subfamily cactooideae and the tribus cacteae, which is typical of spherical or cylindrical cacti with warts or papillae. The systematic position of the species has been further researched by molecular studies in recent years, whereby the relationship has been confirmed to other types of the genus Mammillaria.

Morphology

Mammillaria geminispina is characterized by its compact, mostly spherical to slightly cylindrical growth. It can reach a height of about 10 to 15 cm and have a diameter of up to 12 cm. The surface of the plant is covered by numerous warts or papillae from which the thorns grow. Each of these warts wears small thorns at the top, which usually consist of several radial and a central thorn. These thorns are often white or light gray and contrast with the darker, sometimes reddish, medium thorns. The double (Geminispina) central thorns, according to which the plant is named, are particularly striking.

The plant occasionally forms side shoots or children, which can develop near the base and can be used for multiplication. This ability to form offshoots make the species particularly attractive for cultivation in collections and gardens.

Flowers and fruit formation

Mammillaria geminispina is known for her delicate, pink to purple flowers that form in a wreath around the tip of the plant. The flowering period usually extends from spring to summer, whereby the flowers can reach a diameter of about 1 to 2 cm. The flowers are small and funnel -shaped and open during the day to attract pollinators like insects.

After pollination, small, elongated fruits develop from the flowers, which are often bright red. These fruits contain numerous tiny seeds that play an important role in spreading the species. In nature, the seeds are spread by wind or animals that eat the fruits and transport the seeds over long distances.

Habitat and distribution

Mammillaria geminispina is located in the dry, rocky regions of central and northern Mexico. The plant grows at altitudes of around 1000 to 2500 meters and is adapted to extreme environmental conditions, including strong sunlight and drought. The floors on which it grows are usually well permeable and consist of a mixture of sand, gravel and nutrient -poor substrates.

The species often occurs in community with other succulent plants and cacti, which are also adapted to the hard conditions of the desert. Her ability to store water in her fleshy trunks enables her to survive long periods of dry.

Cultivation and care

Mammillaria geminispina is a popular ornamental plant and is often cultivated in gardens and collections of cactus lovers. It is relatively easy to care for and can thrive in well -permeable substrates that have been specially developed for cacti and succulents. The plant needs a lot of sunlight and should be placed in a light location. It should be poured regularly in the summer months, whereby it must be ensured that the substrate dries completely between the water gifts to avoid root rot.

In winter, the plant needs a resting phase in which it should only be watered minimally. Mammillaria geminispina is not frost -resistant and should be protected from temperatures below 5 ° C. In warmer climate zones, the plant can also be cultivated outdoors, while in colder regions it is preferably kept in pots and brought into a greenhouse or interior if necessary.

Hanging and protection

Although Mammillaria geminispina is not considered endangered, some populations are at risk due to the loss of habitat and illegal trade in cacti. In some regions of Mexico, protective measures have been taken to maintain the natural stocks of the species. In addition, botanical gardens and private collections play an important role in preserving this fascinating plant.