Pack Size: 20, 100, 300
Year: 2026
Accepted Scientific Name: Mammillaria 'Ginsa Maru' (horticultural cultivar; botanical identity unresolved)
Alternative Horticultural Name: Mammillaria ginsaumae hort.
Related Species: Mammillaria discolor Haw.
Origin and Habitat:
Mammillaria 'Ginsa Maru' is a horticultural selection associated with Japanese cactus cultivation and is generally considered related to Mammillaria discolor, a species native to central Mexico. The parent species inhabits rocky hillsides, limestone slopes, and dry scrublands, growing in well-drained, mineral-rich soils among sparse vegetation. These environments experience warm summers, cooler winters, and seasonal rainfall. The 'Ginsa Maru' selection is primarily known from cultivation rather than a documented natural population and is valued for its compact growth, decorative spination, and attractive pink flowers.
Description:
Mammillaria 'Ginsa Maru' is a compact, slow-growing cactus forming globular to short cylindrical stems approximately 2–5" tall and 2–4" in diameter. The green body develops prominent conical tubercles bearing numerous fine, pale radial spines and stronger central spines that may be yellowish to reddish-brown. Mature plants produce attractive deep pink to rosy-magenta flowers around the crown during spring and summer. The combination of compact growth, decorative spination, and colourful flowers makes this horticultural selection desirable among collectors. As a named cultivated selection, seedlings may not reproduce every characteristic of the parent plant.
Cultivation:
Zone: 9–11; protect from prolonged frost.
Temperature: Optimal growth at 18–28 °C. Maintain winter temperatures above 5 °C.
Growth Rate: Slow to moderate, developing compact rounded stems.
Soil: A fast-draining cactus mixture containing pumice, fine gravel, and moderate organic matter.
Watering: Water during active growth, allowing the medium to dry between waterings. Reduce watering substantially during winter.
Fertilizing: Apply diluted cactus fertilizer every 2–3 weeks during active growth.
Light: Bright light to partial sun. Gentle morning sunlight encourages compact growth and flowering.
Pests and Diseases: Mealybugs, root mealybugs, spider mites, scale insects, and root rot.
Germination Info:
Temperature: 27 °C.
Surface Sown: Yes. Press seeds lightly onto a fine growing medium.
Germination Time: Approximately 7–28 days.
Moisture: Maintain consistent moisture without waterlogging.
Light: Bright, indirect light.
After Germination: Gradually increase ventilation and introduce brighter light as seedlings establish.
ish.
