Sun: full sun to partial shade
Water: Typical water needs for a succulent
Temperature: Zone 9a from 20° F to 25° F (-6.7 ° C to -3.9° C) to Zone 11b from 45° F to 50° F (7.2° C to 10° C)
Winter Survival: Not cold hardy
Propagation: seeds
Flower: In the Spring
Flower Type: red-pink
Toxic: Generally non-toxic to humans and animals
Dormant: winter
Space Requirement: Indoors & Outdoors
Common Problems: Plants may rot if overwatered
Where to buy Mammillaria spinosissima ?
Basc Care for Mammillaria spinosissima
Watering
Regular watering period should be every 2 weeks
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.
Fertilizing
Only feed this succulent during its active growing seasons which means winter. 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 "Red-headed Irishman, Irish Red-head"
Mammillaria spinosissima does best when placed in an area that receives full sun to partial shade throughout the day. This variety of succulents can tolerate direct sunlight for short periods, but if the temperatures get too high or the light is too intense it may be beneficial to find a shadier spot.
As per this succulent profile, it is only able to stay healthy when the environment temperature is above the range of zone 9a from 20° F to 25° F (-6.7 ° C to -3.9° C).
When temperatures drop below freezing, it is important to take precautions to protect Mammillaria spinosissima from the cold. Insulating and providing adequate drainage for the plant are key elements in helping it survive winter weather. Wind and sun exposure should also be minimized to prevent frost damage.
Any succulents in the group will need a medium space to grow. You can place your pot at your table or window. Since this plant needs more space than mini succulents, you should consider do not plant them together with other succulents/plants.
Mammillaria spinosissima also benefits from some indirect light throughout the day as well, so make sure you give it enough space to soak up light without becoming too exposed to heat.
Propagation
Mammillaria spinosissima can be propagated from seeds. Signs of a good seed is one that is plump, dark in color and slightly sticky. To propagate X from seed, one must prepare a soil mixture of well-draining potting mix, sow the seeds evenly and lightly press them into the surface. Lastly, gently water the soil using a spray bottle and place the container in bright but indirect light.
Toxicity
Mammillaria spinosissima is generally non-toxic to humans and animals. However, it is important to be aware that certain parts of the plant may contain toxins which can cause mild skin irritation. It is advised that you keep the plants away from small children or pets, as they may unknowingly ingest them and suffer ill effects.
