About

This clustering cactus with globose stems to 8cm in height, the areoles with about 100 cream radial spines; white or pink-tinged flowers 1cm in length are borne towards the apex of each stem in spring and summer.

About the genus

Mammillaria are spiny cacti with spherical or columnar stems, often in clusters, with many prominent tubercles, and funnel-shaped flowers usually in a ring near the apex of the stem

Growing conditions

SunlightFull sun
Soil typeLoam, Sand
Soil pHAcid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moistureWell-drained
AspectSouth-facing, North-facing, East-facing
ExposureSheltered
UK hardinessH2

Plant details

Plant typeCactus Succulent, Houseplants, Conservatory Greenhouse
HabitClump forming
FoliageEvergreen
HeightUp to 10 cm
Spread0-0.1 metre
Time to full height5-10 years
Suggested usesPatio and container plants
Native toMexico

Care notes

CultivationGrow under glass in a standard cactus compost, in bright, filtered light, with low humidity. When in growth water moderately and feed every two or three weeks with a balanced liquid feed. Keep almost dry in the winter
PruningNo pruning required
PropagationPropagate by seed sown at 19 - 24°C in early spring or by offsets
Pest resistanceMay be susceptible to mealybugs
Disease resistanceGenerally disease-free