The Ladyfinger Cactus (Mammillaria Elongata)

A charming little cactus that forms clusters of cylindrical stems that can be white to golden yellow or brown. These lovely ladies are endemic to a limited area of Mexico. Although they are quite common across their limited range populations in some parts are being threatened by development and predation by goats. Don't let their (sort of, not really) lady-like appearance fool you these cacti are bloody resilient and an excellent cactus for beginners.

We've matched the Ladyfinger Cactus to The Tripot - Saturn White, handmade by master ceramicist, Mark Gambino but you can select any pot from Our Small Range to complete the look.

Watering

If you've ever killed a succulent chances are you were overwatering it. Don't worry though watering is pretty simple with these beauties. Wait until the soil in the pot has almost completely dried out before watering again heavily. When you water try and apply it to the soil only and avoid getting your cactus wet as much as possible. A little bit won't hurt but try not to douse it with water. Water less in winter and if in doubt, don't water.

Location

They love bright direct light so near a westerly or south facing window or balcony is great

Managing growth

These guys are currently about 10cm tall by 20cm wide. Over time the clump of stems will continue to expand to about 30-40cm wide. Although they aren't a slow grower by cactus standards they will remain happy in their current pot for a few years.

Greeting your Ladyfinger Cactus

These plants will ship in a 100mm nursery pot to suit our small ceramic range. If you purchase a ceramic pot in the same order we will transport it together in the one delivery.

Cacti Care Guide

Cacti Care Guide coming soon! (PDF)

The Tripot - Saturn White and the Ceramicist 

This Tripot has been glazed in Saturn White. Saturn White is a semi-matte, white glaze that has been specially formulated by Mark! The Tripot also has a drainage hole to provide better air circulation to your plant. 

Mark was introduced to pottery in primary school at the age of 10. He loved the feel of clay and being able to create from the earth. After a short session at school he begged his parents to enrol him in a pottery school. Mark now has over 40 years experience and has made pottery for David Jones and Country Road. 

In 2017 Mark opened his own studio where he teaches and thankfully continues to make pottery. He's still passionate about his craft, always trying to better his work. In recent years making his own glazes and experimenting with new colours and effects has become a bit of an obsession for Mark.