Mammillaria spinosissima - Cylindrical Pincushion Cactus

Mammillaria spinosissima - Cylindrical Pincushion Cactus

You will receive this exact specimen.
Measures 9" tall.
Showcased here in one-of-a-kind handmade pottery (sold separately).
Will be shipped bare root.

Mammillaria spinosissima, commonly known as the Spiny Pincushion Cactus or Red-Headed Irishman, is a fast-growing, cylindrical cactus native to central Mexico. It is highly regarded for its dense covering of reddish-brown or white spines and its vibrant ring of magenta to purple flowers that appear around the crown in spring

APPEARANCES and CHARACTERISTICS

• Size and Growth: It typically reaches 12 inches (30 cm) in height and 4 inches (10 cm) in diameter, though some specimens in the wild can grow up to 20 inches tall. It is solitary when young but often forms clusters as it matures.
• Flowers and Fruit: Funnel-shaped pink to purple flowers bloom in a "crown" near the top of the stem. These are followed by small, club-shaped red berries that are a favorite for native birds.
• Hardiness: It is hardy in USDA zones 8–11 and can survive brief periods of frost down to 23°F (-5°C) if kept completely dry.

CARE and GROWING CONDITIONS

• Light: Thrives in full sun or bright, direct light for at least 6 hours daily. In extremely hot climates, it benefits from partial afternoon shade to prevent sunburn.
• Watering: Follow a "soak and dry" method; water deeply only when the soil is completely dry. Suspend watering entirely in winter to prevent root rot and encourage spring flowering.
• Soil: Requires a highly porous, gritty cactus mix. A recommended blend is 70% to 80% mineral grit (pumice, perlite, or coarse sand) with minimal organic matter.
• Potting: Use containers with drainage holes. This species actually flourishes when slightly root-bound, so frequent repotting (every 2–3 years) is generally sufficient.