About
A fairly fast-growing, low-growing species of cacti to around 6cm in height, forming large grey-green cylindrical stems, densely covered with soft white spines. Rings of bright pink flowers with yellow centres appear in spring, close to the stems in contrast with the white spines. Easy to grow for those wanting to grow cacti for the first time.
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
Soil pHAcid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moistureWell-drained
AspectSouth-facing, West-facing
ExposureSheltered
UK hardinessH2
Plant details
Plant typeCactus Succulent
HabitClump forming
FoliageEvergreen
HeightUp to 10cm
Spread0.1-0.5 metres
Time to full height2-5 years
Suggested usesHouseplants, Patio and container plants
Care notes
CultivationGrow in cactus compost in full light. From midspring to early autum water moderately and apply a half-strength balanced liquid fertiliser monthly; keep completely dry at other times. See houseplant cacti and succulent cultivation for further information
PruningNo pruning required
PropagationPropagate by stem or leaf cuttings in spring or early summer. Separate offsets in spring
Pest resistanceMay be susceptible to scale insects and mealybugs
Disease resistanceGenerally disease-free