Where it grows
The natural form of Mammillaria gracilis is indigenous to Mexico.
Special features
‘Oruga’ is a monstrose cultivar of Mammillaria gracilis. It is nearly spineless, and instead produces white ‘wool’ at the spine growth points. Produces petite pink flowers.
It is also considered by some to be Mammillaria vetula and not Mammillaria gracilis.
Care Guide
Like most Mammillaria, this is a desert species and prefers full sun during the growing season of summer. It needs a gritty soil mix with very little organic components to mimic the soil in its natural habitat. Water it well during spring and summer, but keep it totally dry in winter.
Growing season
Spring and summer.
Propagation
Seeds and offsets.