Mammillaria spinosissima (Spiny Pincushion Cactus)

Mammillaria spinosissima (Spiny Pincushion Cactus) is a small cactus with solitary stems at first, then often clustering later.  The cylindrical dark blue-green stems, up to 12-20 in. tall (30-50 cm) and 4 in. wide (10 cm), are covered with dense bristly red-brown or white central spines, and cream radials. In spring, it produces a pretty ring of carmine-pink flowers, 0.8 in across (2 cm). The blossoms are followed by small greenish to dull purple fruits. Mammillaria spinosissima offsets readily and can fill a 10 in. (25 cm) pot in only a few years in optimum growing conditions. 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 12-20 in. tall (30-50 cm) and 3-4 in. wide (7-10 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.
• Repotting every 2-3 years.
• Native to central Mexico.