Mammillaria pondii subsp. setispina

Mammillaria pondii subsp. setispina

Synonym: Cochemiea setispina
Family: Cactaceae
Common Name: cochemiea
Origin: Mammillaria pondii subsp. setispina is endemic to Mexico, the interior of Baja California – including the San Borja region, San Julio Canyon, and Angel de la Guarda Island. It originates from gravelly or sandy slopes of granite mountains, at altitudes of 0-400 m.
Description: Cochemiea is a clumping, columnar cactus that reaches 12 inches tall. It forms solitary gray-green stems that develop into clusters over time, covered in a dense array of spines. From March – April showy red flowers are formed, funnel-shaped and narrow for Hummingbird pollination.

Interesting Features:
- This subspecies is the local form of Mammillaria pondii, differing from the straight species by having only 1-4 central spines, the upper straight, and lower long and hooked.
Uses: There is no specific use for this subspecies outside of cultivation, but the genus Mammillaria has been used in Mexico to treat ear-ache, as a purgative, snake repellant, and insecticide.

Cultivation and Care:

Watering: Low
- More sensitive to over-watering than other species of cacti, M. pondii subsp. setispina requires irrigation during the summer growing season, but should be kept as dry as possible during winter. Never allow to remain in standing water.
Soil: Cochemiea must be planted in a well-draining mineral potting soil, with good ventilation. Sand can be added, but avoid the use of limestone, peat, or humus, and ensure that soil is mildly acidic.
Lighting: M. pondii subsp. setispina needs maximum sun exposure to reach optimum growth and flowering conditions. Provide strong sunlight, but cacti will also tolerate light shade.
Propagation: Cochemiea can be propagated from seed, offsets, or woody stem cuttings. Allow cuttings to callous before planting directly into the soil, and sow seed after the last frost.
Cold Tolerance: 10°F, USDA Hardiness zones 8a to 10b.
Special Accommodations: While not simple to cultivate, ensuring good ventilation and well-draining conditions, M. pondii subsp. setispina is not difficult to grow. To encourage flowering and prolong survival, however, allow a winter rest where irrigation is suspended, as watering during winter can lead to accelerated growth and root rot.

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