Cacti I.D

[wildherbalian85]

Hi was wondering if there were any cacti experts in here as i have a cacti that has flowered for only the second time in 2 years and i was wondering what cati it is..

[Seajay]

Mammillaria, not sure of the species but possibly zeilmanniana, (there are nearly 200). If you have a look on the net and match the number of radial spines you'll find the species for sure.I think the growth is a little distorted due to lack of light, also try turning the plant a quarter of a turn every few days.
They are an excellent species to collect and grow on window sills. That's how I started when a lad. Haven't grown them for years though.

Colin

[wildherbalian85]

Originally Posted by Seajay

Mammillaria, not sure of the species but possibly zeilmanniana, (there are nearly 200). If you have a look on the net and match the number of radial spines you'll find the species for sure.I think the growth is a little distorted due to lack of light, also try turning the plant a quarter of a turn every few days.
They are an excellent species to collect and grow on window sills. That's how I started when a lad. Haven't grown them for years though.

Colin

Thanks that name rings a bell.

With regards to the light i found these tend to grow better on a bright sill rather then in direct sunlight. I only have one Cacti in direct sunlight and that is my torch cati. I do try to turn them regualery but i tend to forget.

One other thing i have just noticed and that is the flower which was open earlier has now closed up.

[Seajay]

If I remember correctly the flowers do open and close in response to light. What I defanately remember is how beautiful the flowers are when viewed with a magnifying glass. Almost like silk!
I am surprised you find they do not like sun. They come from the deserts of Mexico though perhaps it may be the double glazing which most homes have now of course. Saying that when I eventually moved them to a greenhouse I did use a little white wash (on the glass not the plants)

Colin