About
Mammillaria prolifera, little candles, is a clustering, spherical cactus forming dense mounds of small, globose stems to 10 cm tall. Short, white or red-brown spines and creamy-yellow flowers tinged pink, 2 cm across, are produced in a ring near the stem apex in late spring and early summer. A charming and easy-care cactus for a sunny greenhouse bench or windowsill.
About the genus
Mammillaria are spherical to cylindrical, spiny cacti from Mexico and neighbouring regions, often forming clusters, with prominent tubercles and a ring of funnel-shaped flowers near the stem apex in late spring and summer. Popular and easy-care cacti for a sunny greenhouse bench or windowsill.
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, Conservatory Greenhouse
HabitClump forming
FoliageEvergreen
HeightUp to 10 cm
Spread0.1-0.5 metres
Time to full height5-10 years
Suggested usesPatio and container plants
Native toW. Indies, Cuba to Hipaniola
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