Overview

Mammillaria karwinskiana is a clump forming cactus succulent in the genus Mammillaria, part of the Cactaceae family, with evergreen foliage. Mammillaria karwinskiana grows best in full sun, and tolerates loam and sand soils and any pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H2. Suggested uses include patio and container plants.

About

Mammillaria karwinskiana is a clump-forming cactus succulent belonging to the Mammillaria genus, known for its spherical or columnar spiny forms and distinctive tubercles. This evergreen plant thrives in full sun and is suited to sheltered positions with well-drained loam or sandy soils of varying pH. It is hardy to UK zone H2 and is typically grown in conservatories or greenhouses, making it ideal for patio and container planting. The plant produces funnel-shaped flowers arranged in a circle at the top of the stems during summer, adding seasonal interest.

About the genus

Mammillaria is one of the largest genera in the cactus family (Cactaceae), with currently about 170 to 190 accepted species and around 99 subspecies. Most of the mammillarias are native to Mexico, while some come from the Southwestern United States, the Caribbean, Colombia, Guatemala, Honduras and Venezuela. The common name "pincushion cactus" refers to this genus and the closely related Escobaria.

Wikipedia contributors, "Mammillaria", CC BY-SA 4.0 — Mammillaria

Growing conditions

Best soil and position for Mammillaria

Sunlight

Full sun

Soil type

Loam, Sand

Soil pH

Acid, Alkaline, Neutral

Soil moisture

Well-drained

Aspect

South-facing, East-facing, North-facing

Exposure

Sheltered

UK hardiness

H2

Plant details

Mammillaria karwinskiana size, habit and characteristics

Plant type

Cactus Succulent, Conservatory Greenhouse

Habit

Clump forming

Foliage

Evergreen

Suggested uses

Patio and container plants

Care notes

Pruning and caring for Mammillaria karwinskiana

Propagation

Seed, Offsets

Pest resistance

Mealybugs

Disease resistance

Generally disease-free

Frequently asked questions