Talking of Jack: Mother-in-law's cushion threatened with extinction
The Mother-in-law's cushion (Echinocactus grusonii) has always had countless fans. It comes from the central highlands of Mexico and was discovered in 1890. Soon large specimens appeared in Europe. They were called Golden barrel cactus, showed at exhibitions and triggered a real boom.
The ever-increasing demand was covered by imports from Mexico, because the cultivation from seeds was mistakenly considered too lengthy. Unfortunately, a large part of the natural remains was later destroyed by a dam project.
Conclusion: Experts estimate that the number of wild plants still present today is less than 250. This is why Echinocactus grusonii is considered extremely endangered and protected. The specimens traded today - such as our plant for men Jack - come from horticultural propagation and are grown in warmer regions such as the Canary Islands or California.
That's how you pamper your Mother-in-law’s cushion
In contrast to some mothers-in-law, our Mother-in-law’s cushion (Echinocactus grusonii) is extremely easy to care for. Nevertheless, here are some hints:
​
- Give it a sunny location directly behind the window (or a maximum of 1 meter away).
- Keep temperatures as stable as possible (between 19 and 24 degrees Centigrade).
When the plant is young, it reacts sensitively to intense sunlight and may need some shade over noon. But don't worry. Basically, this cactus also thrives in cooler locations, as long as these are light, but then it grows more columnar than spherical.
​
Stick to the watering instructions (preferably less water than more), but use rainwater or stagnant water if possible. This cactus does not tolerate lime. Between May and September fertilize the Mother-in-law's cushion once a month with liquid cactus fertilizer, which you add to the water. All right?