Sun: full sun to partial shade
Water: Typical water needs for a succulent
Temperature: Zone 10a from 30° F to 35° F (-1.1 ° C to 1.7° C)
Winter Survival: Not cold hardy
Propagation: offsets
Flower: in the late summer and early fall
Flower Type:
Toxic: Generally non-toxic to humans and animals
Dormant: winter
Space Requirement: Indoors & Outdoors
Common Problems: Plants may rot if overwatered, pests
Where to buy Mammillaria gracilis fragilis?
Basc Care for Mammillaria gracilis fragilis
Watering
You can water your succulent more than often in extreme conditions but make sure that the soil is completely dry before watering your succulent again.
Can you water your succulent more than what its need? The answer is yes and no. In extreme conditions, you can water your plants more often when you notice the soil is completely dry.
Fertilizing
Only feed this succulent during its active growing seasons which means spring and fall. Use the right fertilizer applied in the right amounts. Applying half-strength balanced fertilizer every month or so is recommended for optimal results.
Do not fertilize during winter as the plant is dormant.
Sun & Location Requirements for "Thimble Cactus"
Mammillaria gracilis fragilis needs full sun to partial shade in order to thrive. While this variety needs plenty of bright light, it is important not to place it in direct sunlight for extended periods of time as this can cause damage or scorching to the leaves and stems. A shadier spot with indirect light could be just what "Thimble Cactus" needs.
As per this succulent profile, it is only able to stay healthy when the environment temperature is above the range of zone 10a from 30° F to 35° F (-1.1 ° C to 1.7° C).
In order to protect Mammillaria gracilis fragilis from freezing temperatures, it is important to provide adequate insulation and drainage. A layer of mulch or gravel will help protect the roots by keeping them warm during cold weather. In addition, protection from wind and sun exposure can help reduce the chances of frost damage.
Propagation
Succulents can be propagated easily by taking offsets from the mother plant and replanting them in fresh soil. The offset will eventually grow into a new succulent that is identical to its parent.
Toxicity
Mammillaria gracilis fragilis is generally non-toxic to humans and animals. However, the plant may contain certain toxins which can cause mild skin irritation if it is ingested or comes in contact with skin. Therefore, it is important to keep the plant away from children and pets for safety reasons.
Pests and Diseases
Mammillaria gracilis fragilis can be affected common pests and diseases like most of the other succulents such as scale insects and Red spider mites.
If you do spot any of pest signs, you can treat your succulent using below methods.
- Scale insects: quarantine, clean infected plants, soapy water.
- Red spider mites: Quarantine, clean your infected plants, treatment with a systemic insecticidal/soapy water.
Besides that, to prevent serious health issues from happening, keep your succulent in a well-ventilated area and check it regularly for any signs of pests or health problems.