Mila caespitosa

Overview

Mila caespitosa is the sole representative of the monotypic genus Mila within the Cactaceae family, native to Peru ¹. This miniature, clustering cactus is highly prized by collectors for its compact growth form and bright yellow flowers. The genus name is an anagram of "Lima", the capital city of its native country ².

Taxonomy and naming

Described in 1915 by botanists Nathaniel Lord Britton and Joseph Nelson Rose, the genus Mila was creatively named by rearranging the letters of "Lima" ². The specific epithet caespitosa refers to its tufted, cushion-forming growth habit. It encompasses several historical synonyms, such as Mila nealeana, now unified under this single variable species.

Distribution and habitat

Endemic to western South America, specifically the dry rocky slopes of Peru (Ancash and Lima regions) at elevations ranging from 1,000 to 2,500 meters above sea level ¹. It thrives in hyper-arid desert biomes and dry shrublands, growing in gravelly soils and rock crevices.

Appearance

This species forms low-lying dense clumps. Individual stems are cylindrical, pale green, reaching 10–15 cm in height and about 3–4 cm in diameter. The ribs are low and covered with closely set areoles bearing fine, needle-like yellowish to brownish spines. Small, bell-shaped, daytime-blooming yellow flowers appear at the stem tips during summer.

Cultivation

Mila caespitosa requires an open, mineral-heavy substrate to prevent root rot. It tolerates light frost down to 5°C if kept entirely dry during the winter resting period ². Bright, filtered light promotes compact growth and rich spination.

Common cultivation errors

Overwatering and using standard, water-retaining potting soil are the primary causes of failure. Without excellent drainage and proper air circulation, the delicate root system of Mila will decay rapidly.

Bibliography