Mammillaria vetula cv. 'Orunga', commonly called the Caterpillar Cactus, is a rare and visually intriguing crested form of Mammillaria vetula, likely hybridised with Mammillaria gracilis. This cultivar was developed in cultivation rather than discovered in the wild, but its lineage traces back to the arid highlands of Mexico—specifically Hidalgo, Guanajuato, and Querétaro—where its parent species thrive.
Unlike the typical cylindrical stems of its ancestors, 'Orunga' exhibits a crested or monstrose growth pattern. This mutation causes the stem to grow in a sinuous, undulating fashion, producing worm-like, segmented forms that resemble the movement of a crawling caterpillar. Its surface is densely covered in small, rounded tubercles (wart-like projections), from which emerge clusters of soft, white, hair-like spines. These spines not only protect the plant from herbivores but also give it a frosted or snow-dusted appearance.
Growing just 1–3 cm wide per stem, Mammillaria vetula cv. 'Orunga' remains compact, making it ideal for pots, dish gardens, or rockery displays. It is a slow-growing, long-lived perennial succulent that can be grown indoors or outdoors in frost-free regions of Australia. It thrives in bright, indirect light and well-drained cactus mix enriched with pumice or perlite. Watering should be infrequent—allowing the soil to dry out completely between applications—and almost entirely halted during winter dormancy. This cultivar does best in low humidity and warm temperatures between 18–30°C.
Due to its crested nature, propagation is challenging and typically done through grafting, making each plant a unique and highly prized specimen. While non-toxic to pets, its fine spines can cause skin irritation if handled roughly.
Perfect for collectors and cactus enthusiasts, Mammillaria vetula cv. 'Orunga' offers sculptural beauty that evolves over time—no two specimens are ever the same.
Mammillaria vetula cv. 'Orunga' 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...
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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.
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