Xerophyte

Central Spines

Absent.

Description

Mammillaria theresaeSN|9674]]SN|9674]] is a small geophyte, usually single headed, though some specimens offset in age. This is a very distinctive little species that was discovered in the late 1960s. When it came into cultivation, it caused quite a sensation because of its peculiar long-tubed blossoms and the spines are very decorative

Roots

Strong taproot

Note

Cryptocarpic fruitIt is possible to collect fruit and seeds only by means of a thin pointed forceps. The seeds' vitality lasts for many years and moreover seeds contain inhibitors that preserve them from premature germination. Generally fresh seeds won’t germinate very well, only old seeds do. The complete germination of this kind of seed may take several years (Some will sprout unexpectedly after 5 or 8 years!). Because of the above peculiarity, seeds and plants of cryptocarpi Mammillaria (Series Longiflorae) are seldom available from commercial sources.

Tubercles

Small, cylindrical/conical.

Flowers

Crocus-like, funnelform, pink, unusually long-stemmed for a Mammillaria (3.5 cm in diameter and up to 5 cm long), that are many times larger than the plant body itself, at least with plants on their own roots. Stigmas pale yellow.

Stem

Subglobose to cylindrical, olive green, with magenta-red tint, up to 4(-5) cm high, 1-3 cm in diameter. Without latex.

Radial Spines

22-30, plumose, pinnated, translucent, white to yellowish white, up to 2 mm long, forming little spines clusters.

Fruits

Cryptocarpic, stays retained within the body at the axil for many years. Club shaped, up to 10 mm long.