Contrary to what most people have in mind while studying cacti, the Brain Cactus or scientifically known as Mammillaria elongata ‘Cristata’ is quite eye-catching. This type of growth is unique as it mimics rich folds of the brain and that’s why it is loved by cactus lovers and collectors. The member of the Mammillaria elongata species which has this crested form has different forms and relatives that also exhibit the ‘brain’ pattern. Below is a discussion of the different kinds of Brain Cactus alongside the recommended methods of their care.
Mammillaria elongata ‘Cristata’
- This member of the Mammillaria family has the following unique properties.
Appearance:
- The Mammillaria elongata ‘Cristata’ has the appearance of a brain due to its thin spine-like branch twisted in an unusual manner.
- It has small yellowish spines all over the stem and it has sort of a fuzzy texture to it.
- Usually it is not large in size and can easily grow inside a house, in a pot.
Growth Habit:
- This cactus grows very slowly and as they grow, they form large clumps or bunches.
- It can be easily cultivated in any container or often planted in rock gardens mainly because of its curiosity value.
Flowers:
Small and white to pale yellow in color, flowers may bloom in spring but this cactus is not really famous for these flowers.
Care:
- Requires bright, indirect sunlight. Exposure to direct sunlight leads to developing skin cancer.
- Adapts to cactus or succulent compost that drains well.
- Water once a week or more infrequently but ensure that the soil is allowed to dry out before water is added to it.
- Avoid frost and provide heat.
Mammillaria geminispina ‘Cristata’Appearance:
- This species of Mammillaria stems is crested and has tightly coiled stem structures in a brain-like formation.
- The stems are white, which has got wooly spines, making the cactus to have a furry look about them.
Growth Habit:
- Like all other members of the crested cacti family, it is also slow-growing and forms mounds of contorted multibranched standards.
- Very suitable for container growing and can indeed be a great boost to the collection of any succulent gardener.
Flowers:
- Small pink flowers may develop which is a bonus to the plant.
Care:
- Needs bright, indirect sunlight and well-draining soil.
- Water infrequently, allowing the soil to dry between waterings.
- Protect from extreme cold and frost.
General Care Tips for Brain Cacti
Light: Brain cacti are nature’s perfection – if provided with bright but indirect sunlight. High light intensities can produce sunburn while very low light intensities will induce etiolation, or weak, thin, and pale growth.
Water: These cacti actually require the soak-and- dry method of irrigation. When the soil is dry external watering should be done, however, it is recommended that the cactus should not be allowed to stand on water which causes root rot.
Soil: Drainage of the soil is another important factor which should be favorable. Any commercial cactus/succulent mix can be given; if not, one can prepare one by adding sand or perlite to an ordinary garden soil.
Temperature: Brain cacti like warm climate and they should not be exposed to frost. During winter make sure you store them in a cool, dry place as it is their biggest equivalent to winter.
Fertilizing: In the course of the growing period, a diluted cactus fertilizer can be applied on the plants monthly.
Bottom Line
The Brain Cactus is an incredibly interesting plant that can bring the sense of the mythical to any cactus lover’s collection. The plants grow in a kind of crest which makes them distinct from many other cacti species and although not very difficult to cultivate the appearance of many of them can be very attractive to the novice grower of cacti. Whether you opt for Mammillaria elongata ‘Cristata’ or discover more crested Mammillaria varieties, these cacti will be a discussion and a magnet in your plant collection.
