Mammillaria bombycina (Silken Pincushion)

Popular and beautiful, Mammillaria bombycina (Silken Pincushion) is a small cactus, with solitary or clustered stems, that tends to form a large and gorgeous clump over time. The cylindrical stems, up to 6-8 in. tall (15-20 cm) and 2 in. wide (5 cm), are covered with dense white hairs between the tubercles which are adorned white radial spines and hooked reddish-brown central spines. In spring, it bears deep rose-pink funnel-shaped flowers, 0.6 in across (1.5 cm). Silken Pincushion will produce several complete rings of flowers every year. The blossoms are followed by small pinkish green fruits. Easy to grow and fast-growing, this miniature cactus is perfect for containers. It can be grown as a houseplant, but also grows well outdoors in frost-free climates. Protect from cold, as this species is frost sensitive and only hardy to 23°F (-5°C) for brief periods.

• Recipient of the prestigious Award of Garden Merit of the Royal Horticultural Society.
• Grows up to 8 in. tall (20 cm) and 20-36 in. wide (50-90 cm). Needs lots and lots of space to grow.
• Easily grown in a standard cactus compost in full sun or bright filtered light. Water moderately when in growth. Make sure you let the soil dry out between waterings. No water should ever be allowed to stand around the roots. Keep the plant dry in winter.
• Feed every two or three weeks with a balanced liquid feed when in growth. Drought tolerant.
• No serious pest or disease issues. Keep an eye out for mealybugs or red spider. Susceptible to rot if over-watered.
• Propagate by seed sown at 66-75°F (19-24°C) in early spring or by offsets.
• Native to Mexico.