Synonyms:

Cochemiea pondii subs. setispina is actually a synonym of Cochemiea setispina. Other synonyms are:

Cactus roseanus
Cactus setispinus
Cochemiea pondii subsp. setispina
Mammillaria pondii subsp. setispina
Mammillaria setispina

Habitat:

Cochemiea pondii subs. setispina is native to Mexico and specifically endemic to the interior of Baja California, including regions such as San Borja, San Julio Canyon, and Angel de la Guarda Island. The type locality, where the species was first identified, is in San Borja, Baja California, Mexico.
This cactus thrives in altitudes ranging from sea level up to 400 meters. Its natural habitat consists of slopes on granite mountains, where it takes root in gravelly or sandy soil containing gneiss, trachyte, porphyry, and sandstone conglomerate. In these arid conditions, it coexists with other cactus species like Echinocereus ferreirianus, Echinocereus sanborgianus, Mammillaria dioica, and Ferocactus peninsulae.
The geographical range of Cochemiea pondii subs. setispina showcases its adaptability to diverse substrates and its ability to thrive in the challenging conditions of the Baja California landscape.

Description:

Cochemiea pondii subs. setispina, also known as Mammillaria setispina, is a distinct local variant of Cochemiea pondii, differentiated from the main species by its unique features. Notably, it possesses 1-4 central spines, with the upper one straight and the lower one the longest, forming a hooked shape, measuring 2-5 cm in length. The flowers of this cactus are particularly vibrant, showcasing a striking red color, a tubular shape, and bilateral symmetry, making them well-suited for pollination by hummingbirds.
In terms of appearance, this cactus resembles a small cereus, initially growing as a solitary plant and later forming small, irregular, and occasionally branched clusters. The stems can be either ascending or prostrate, somewhat jointed, and concealed beneath a dense covering of spines. The stems reach a height of about 30 cm.
The roots of Cochemiea pondii subs. setispina are either fibrous or moderately thickened. The tubercles are short, with woolly axils but lacking setae. The radial spines, numbering 10 to 12, are white with black tips, spreading widely and ranging from 10 to 34 mm in length, presenting in an uneven fashion. The central spines, stouter than the radials, range from 1 to 4, with one pointing strongly downward and forming a hooked shape, measuring 2-5 cm in length.
The large flowers emerge near the tip of the plant, displaying a scarlet hue, measuring 5 cm in length and 2 cm in width. The flowers have zygomorphic characteristics, featuring a long hypanthium, flaring segments, and reflexed tips. The fruit is obovoid, reaching a length of 3 cm and displaying a scarlet color.
Cochemiea pondii subs. setispina typically blooms in March to April, occasionally producing a second round of blooms in Autumn. The seeds are black and pitted.

Cultivation:

Cultivating Cochemiea pondii subs. setispina may pose a challenge, but with optimal conditions and excellent ventilation, it can thrive successfully. One key consideration is the plant’s sensitivity to over-watering, making precise and careful watering essential. Utilizing an open mineral potting soil is crucial, while avoiding the inclusion of peat or other humus sources in the potting mixture.
It is advised to refrain from adding limestone to the potting mix, as Cochemiea pondii subsp. setispina prefers a moderately acidic environment. While this cactus can exhibit sensitivity to frost, providing it with maximum sun exposure is vital for realizing its full potential and encouraging successful flowering.
To promote flowering and ensure the long-term survival of the plant, a winter rest period is recommended, allowing the cactus to undergo a slight shriveling. This intentional slowing of growth contributes to the overall health and resilience of the plant.
In summary, achieving success in cultivating Cochemiea pondii subs. setispina involves maintaining careful watering practices, utilizing the appropriate potting soil, maximizing sun exposure, and implementing a strategic winter rest period to support both flowering and the enduring vitality of the plant.

Propagation:

Cochemiea pondii subs. setispina can be propagated through either seeds or cuttings. Opting for seed propagation is recommended, particularly during the spring when temperatures range between 21 and 27ºC. Sow the seeds in a well-draining, soft soil, ensuring consistent moisture until germination, a process that typically takes between 7 to 14 days.

Curiosity:

The classification of Cochemieas presents an ongoing challenge for botanists due to their striking resemblance to Mammillarias. The official nomenclature for Cochemieas remains unsettled, creating a dilemma among botanists who are yet to reach a consensus on whether to designate Cochemiea as an independent genus or solely as a subgenus within Mammillaria.

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