Mammillaria lasiacantha
(Lacespine cactus, golfball cactus)

Skill Level:
Germination: intermediate
Growing: intermediate

M. lasiacantha is difficult to see in habitat due to its diminutive size and the way it mimics the harsh white color of the limestone substrates it grows in. Its flowers are often larger than the plant itself. They are pink to cream colored with salmon midveins, appearing in late winter to early spring. With very careful application of water and excellent ventilation the lacespine cactus is not difficult to grow. With age it may grow additional stems. Beautiful displays of flowers may begin in the second year.

A very loose mineral soil mix is best for lasiacantha, and no organic matter should be added into the soil mix. Use a pot only big enough to hold the root ball and water sparingly during the growing season only after the soil has completely dried. Repotting every 2-3 years will encourage optimum growth and flowering.. Use a low nitrogen fertilizer that is high in potassium and phosphorous. Bottom watering is best, since the feathery spines can retain water and encourage fungal growth. Keep dry in winter. M. lasiacantha can tolerate full sunlight due to its heavy spination, and this will help encourage flowering. It is cold hardy to at least 20°F if kept dry.

Germination of cactus seeds is about timing, temperature, quality of seeds, cleanliness, and establishing a technique for sowing. Some species have a higher germination rate, and/or a lower germination time than others. For that reason a specific success rate can't be guaranteed. If you are having trouble getting any of your seeds to germinate, please let me know.

Growing from seed info: https://cactiguide.com/article/?article=article21.php

Some info courtesy of http://www.llifle.com