Overview
Mammillaria albicans subsp. fraileana is a columnar upright cactus succulent in the genus Mammillaria, part of the Cactaceae family, with evergreen foliage. Mammillaria albicans subsp. fraileana grows best in full sun, and tolerates loam and sand soils and any pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H2. Suggested uses include patio and container plants.
About
Mammillaria albicans subsp. fraileana is a columnar upright cactus cultivar within the Mammillaria genus, known for its spiny, spherical or columnar forms that often grow in clusters. This evergreen succulent thrives in full sun and prefers well-drained loam or sandy soils with a pH ranging from acid to alkaline. Suitable for sheltered positions, it is hardy to UK zone H2 and is commonly grown in conservatories or greenhouses. The plant produces funnel-shaped flowers arranged in a circle at the top of the stem during summer and is ideal for patio or container cultivation, propagated by seed or offsets.
About the genus
Mammillaria is one of the largest genera in the cactus family (Cactaceae), with currently about 170 to 190 accepted species and around 99 subspecies. Most of the mammillarias are native to Mexico, while some come from the Southwestern United States, the Caribbean, Colombia, Guatemala, Honduras and Venezuela. The common name "pincushion cactus" refers to this genus and the closely related Escobaria.
Wikipedia contributors, "Mammillaria", CC BY-SA 4.0 — Mammillaria
Growing conditions
Best soil and position for Mammillaria
- Sunlight
- Full sun
- Soil type
- Loam, Sand
- Soil pH
- Acid, Alkaline, Neutral
- Soil moisture
- Well-drained
- Aspect
- East-facing, South-facing, North-facing
- Exposure
- Sheltered
- UK hardiness
- H2
Plant details
Mammillaria albicans subsp. fraileana size, habit and characteristics
- Plant type
- Cactus Succulent, Conservatory Greenhouse
- Habit
- Columnar upright
- Foliage
- Evergreen
- Suggested uses
- Patio and container plants
Care notes
Pruning and caring for Mammillaria albicans subsp. fraileana
- Propagation
- Propagate by seed sown at 19 - 24°C in early spring or by offsets
- Pest resistance
- May be susceptible to mealybugs
- Disease resistance
- Generally disease-free
Frequently asked questions
Where is the best place to plant Mammillaria albicans subsp. fraileana?
Mammillaria albicans subsp. fraileana prefers full sun. It suits sheltered positions.
What soil does Mammillaria albicans subsp. fraileana need?
Mammillaria albicans subsp. fraileana grows best in loam and sand soil. It is happy in soil of any pH. Aim for soil that stays well-drained.
Is Mammillaria albicans subsp. fraileana hardy in the UK?
Mammillaria albicans subsp. fraileana has an RHS hardiness rating of H2, meaning it is tender, tolerating 1–5°C, and needs frost-free protection over winter.
How do I propagate Mammillaria albicans subsp. fraileana?
Propagate by seed sown at 19 - 24°C in early spring or by offsets.