Xerophyte

Central Spines

1 to 4, reddish-brown, awl- to needle-like, reddish brown, 5 - 45 mm long.

Description

Mammillaria sonorensisSN|9417]]SN|15981]] is a globular cactus solitary at first, later forming large mounds. The tubercles are keeled, firm, dull bluish-green with well-defined radial spines which are easily distinguishable from the centrals. It will reward the skilled growers with ring of deep pink flowers with darker midveins circling the crown of the plant.

Note

This member of the Cactaceae family was given this name for the occurrence in the Mexican state of Sonora.

Tubercles

Globular-triangular, not sharp angled, keeled, firm, dull bluish-green.

Flowers

Deep pink with darker midveins, to 20 mm long and in diameter.

Blooming Season

Spring (March and April in habitat).

Taxonomic

Mammillaria sonorensisSN|15981]]SN|15981]] is extremely variable in size and length of spine and tubercles, comprises several questionable varieties and its taxonomic history has undergone several changes. Craig segregated the varieties longispina, brevispina, gentry, hiltonii and maccartyi that were described in the "Cact. Succ. Journ. of Amer.", Vol. XII

Stem

Globose, apex depressed, simple or cespitose 6 - 8 cm or more in diameter. With latex.

Radial Spines

8 to 15, slender, needle-like, whitish to cream, with brownish tips, 1 - 20 mm long, upper ones shortest.

Areoles

Oval, woolly in youth; axils woolly, but with only occasional bristles.