Mammillaria parkinsonii (Owl’s Eye Pincushion)

Mammillaria parkinsonii (Owl’s Eye Pincushion) is a woolly, mound forming, blue-green cactus with spherical or cylindrical stems. Initially solitary, the stems, 6 in. tall and wide (15 cm), form a compact bunch over time by dichotomic division. The stems divide, giving it its namesake appearance. This Mammillaria species can form a clump of 8-10 heads in as little as 6 years. The stems are covered with white radial spines and curved brown central spines to 1.4 in. in length (3.5 cm). Opening from buds surrounded by a mass of white wool, funnel-shaped creamy yellow flowers tinged with pink appear in a ring at the apex of the stem. The blossoms are followed by small orange to scarlet fruits. Mammillaria parkinsonii is one of the most cultivated and appreciated plants by the collectors, both for its appearance and ease of cultivation. This charming 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 6 in. tall (15 cm) and 24 in. wide (60 cm).
• 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 central Mexico, where it grows on lime rich soils and calcareous substrate in semi-desert areas characterized by warm-temperate and dry climate.