– Mammillaria laui (2014)

By Carol Wichern (December 2014)

Mammillaria laui is said to be a variable cactus species growing at various elevations in Mexico. Although there are several forms or varieties, the plant usually forms clusters and has at least somewhat globose stems. The tubercles can be naked or contain sparse wool. Spination among forms varies, with some having no central spines.

The plant form I won during the recent meeting was labeled subspecies subducta, and according to Innes and Glass, it grows at lower elevations. It is said to not grow any higher than 2,624 feet. The spines of this variety are usually yellowish or brown, and usually do not exceed 0.5 inch in length. The flowers are said to be somewhat bell-shaped and usually appear pink or purple in color.