Mammillaria rhodantha subs.pringlei

Mammillaria rhodantha subsp. pringlei is a beautiful and relatively easy-to-grow subspecies of the Mammillaria rhodantha group. It’s prized for its dense yellowish to copper-colored central spines, giving it a warm, glowing appearance—especially when backlit by sunlight. Like others in the genus, it produces attractive magenta or purplish-pink flowers in a crown around the apex of the stem.

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🌵 Mammillaria rhodantha subsp. pringlei Care Guide

☀️ Light

• Thrives in bright light to full sun.

• Indoors: Needs a south-facing window or grow light.

• Outdoors: Full morning sun and some light afternoon shade in very hot regions.

💧 Watering

• Water thoroughly, then allow the soil to dry completely.

• Spring–Fall: Every 10–14 days or as needed.

• Winter: Water sparingly or not at all—keep dry in dormancy.

🌱 Soil

• Requires fast-draining cactus/succulent mix.

• Improve drainage with pumice, coarse sand, or perlite.

• Avoid peat-based mixes which hold moisture too long.

🌡️ Temperature

• Ideal: 70–85°F (21–29°C).

• Tolerates down to about 40°F (4°C) if dry.

• Not frost-hardy—move indoors or provide protection during cold spells.

🍽️ Fertilizer

• Use a cactus-specific fertilizer diluted to half strength, once a month in spring and summer.

• Do not fertilize in winter.

🪴 Repotting & Growth

• Typically grows as a single column, but may offset slowly with age.

• Repot every 2–3 years in spring for best results.

• Use gloves—the spines can be sharp and barbed.

🌸 Flowering

• Blooms in late spring to summer with magenta-pink flowers forming a ring at the top.

• Strong light and a cool, dry winter rest help encourage flowering.