silken pincushion
Mammillaria bombycina
RHS AGM 1993
USDA zones9 to 11
SunNeeds full sun (6+ hours)
WaterNeeds dry soil
Size1 to 3 feet wide
- Bloom season
- Spring, summer, autumn, winter
- Soil types
- Sand, loam
- Soil pH
- Acid, alkaline, neutral
Garden uses
Notes
Silken pincushion (Mammillaria bombycina) is a succulent for borders, containers, and xeriscape gardens. It grows outdoors year-round in USDA zone 9 and warmer, down to about 20°F (-7°C). In colder areas, grow it as a houseplant or bring it indoors for winter. This plant likes full sun and dry, sandy or loamy soil. It is not a favorite of deer or rabbits, though hungry ones will eat almost anything. It stays evergreen and tolerates drought, so it needs little care.
Pairs well with White sage, Mexican daisy, and Big sagebrush.
Native range
North America.