Mammillaria polythele 'Toluca' is a unique, nursery-cultivated cactus cultivar renowned for its nearly spineless appearance, occasionally featuring just one or two small spines per areole. Originating from Mexico, this compact cactus forms a singular, rounded shape that can grow into fluffy, textured mounds. It thrives in full sun, requiring at least five hours of direct sunlight per day. Outdoors, a location with light afternoon shade will protect it from the harshest sun rays.
This cactus prefers warm temperatures and low humidity, making it ideal for Australian climates. While it can tolerate short spells of frost, it should be brought indoors when temperatures drop below 10°C at night. Mammillaria polythele 'Toluca' enjoys dry conditions, with minimal watering during the summer months—only when the soil has completely dried out. In winter, water can be reduced almost entirely, a practice that encourages spring flowering.
This cactus produces a crown of dark pink to red flowers around its growing tip, usually in mid-spring. For optimal growth and flowering, plant it in a gritty, well-draining soil mix. A specialised cactus mix with added sand or pumice is ideal. While it rarely requires fertiliser, a light feed with cactus fertiliser during the growing season will give it a boost.
Mammillaria polythele 'Toluca' is a low-maintenance plant, requiring little attention beyond occasional repotting every two to three years. It's a beautiful addition to any collection, offering a striking combination of texture, structure, and seasonal blooms.
Mammillaria 'Toluca' plants for sale shown in 70mm pot. You will receive same or similar plants as those shown in images. Colours will vary depending on time of year and growing conditions.
First time customers... Please read our Shipping Guide, in top or bottom menu, before placing your order.
Please Note:
- All plants are sent bare rooted with no pots and soil, or minimum soil only.
- Due to the drying process necessary for sending plants through the mail, plants may look slightly different than images shown on our website
- Some plants, may look wrinkled when they arrive, may be somewhat limp, or soft to the touch. This is normal as they have been dried out for for a number of days before shipping to avoid rotting in the mail.
- Succulents are very hardy plants and they will recover quickly, providing you unpack them as soon as you receive them follow some simple care instructions you will find with your order.
If you have any questions or concerns at all, please message us via our Facebook page at John & Norma's Succulents for the fastest Response.