Thimble Cactus Facts: Caring For A Thimble Cactus Plant
What is a thimble cactus? This awesome little cactus develops a number of short, spiny stems, each one producing a cluster of thimble-sized offshoots. Creamy yellow flowers appear in spring or late summer. At maturity, the plant forms an attractive, rounded clump. If this brief description has piqued your interest, read on for more thimble cactus facts and info on growing thimble cactus plants.
Thimble Cactus Facts
Native to Central Mexico, thimble cactus (Mammillaria gracilis) is suitable for growing outdoors in USDA plant hardiness zones 9 through 11. Although it tolerates drought and extreme heat, it won’t survive long if temperatures drop below 25 F. (-4 C.). This slow-growing Mammillaria cactus is a great choice for xeriscaping or rock gardens, but it also performs well in a container, making an excellent houseplant. It is generally very easy to grow.
How to Grow a Thimble Cactus
These tips on caring for a thimble cactus will help ensure a healthy, happy plant. If your climate isn’t warm enough to grow cacti outdoors, you can certainly grow thimble cactus as a houseplant. Use a container filled with a potting mix for cacti and succulents, or a combination of regular potting mix and coarse sand. Handle thimble cactus carefully because the offshoots break off easily. However, any offshoots that fall on soil will root. Keep this in mind if you ever want to propagate a new cactus. Thimble cactus will grow in full sunlight or light shade. If you grow thimble cactus in full sunlight, be careful about moving it to a shady spot too suddenly, as the cactus may scorch. Make the adjustment gradually. Water thimble cactus sparingly during the summer. Throughout the winter months, water only if the cactus looks wilted. Always allow the soil to dry between each watering. The cactus is likely to rot very quickly in soggy soil. Feed thimble cactus once every year, in mid-spring. Use a water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half strength.
Gardening tips, videos, info and more delivered right to your inbox!
Sign up for the Gardening Know How newsletter today and receive a free download of our DIY eBook "Bring Your Garden Indoors: 13 DIY Projects For Fall And Winter".
A Credentialed Garden Writer, Mary H. Dyer was with Gardening Know How in the very beginning, publishing articles as early as 2007.
-
9 Thoughtful Stocking Stuffers For Gardeners – That They’ll Actually Use
Stocking stuffers often end up an after-thought, but not these! Explore expert-curated stocking stuffers for gardeners that they'll use for years to come.
By Laura Walters
-
Are Amaryllis Plants Poisonous To Cats? How You Can Tell – And What To Grow Instead
The holiday season is a perfect time to showcase your favorite Christmas blooms, but are amaryllis plants poisonous to cats? Here’s how to keep felines safe and well
By Mary Ellen Ellis
-
Snowball Cactus Care – How To Grow A Mammillaria Snowball Cactus
If you’ve started a cactus collection, don’t forget the snowball cactus. Mammillaria snowball cacti are easy to grow with only the most basic care.
By Becca Badgett
-
What Is An Old Lady Cactus – How To Grow An Old Lady Cactus Flower
The mammillaria old lady cactus can be grown outdoors in hot climates or indoors as a houseplant. Click here to get more information.
By Bonnie L. Grant
-
What Is A Thumb Cactus – Learn About Thumb Cactus Care
If you like cute cacti, the mammillaria thumb cactus is a specimen for you. What is a thumb cactus? Click to learn more.
By Bonnie L. Grant
-
What Is Brain Cactus: Cristata Information And Care
One of the many species of Mammillaria, Cristata is the form known as brain cactus. It is an easy-to-grow cactus and makes a great houseplant or outdoor specimen in warmer climates. Click here for some Cristata information along with care and growing tips.
By Bonnie L. Grant
-
Mammillaria Cactus Varieties: Common Types Of Mammillaria Cacti
Mammillaria are popular plants and common in many nursery centers with ease of care and propagation counted as some of their more appealing features. Click this article for more Mammillaria information of some of the more interesting plants in the family.
By Bonnie L. Grant