spiny pincushion cactus
Mammillaria spinosissima
RHS AGM 1993
USDA zones9 to 11
SunNeeds full sun (6+ hours)
WaterNeeds dry soil
Size12 to 24 inches tall
- Bloom season
- Spring, summer, autumn, winter
- Soil types
- Sand, loam
- Soil pH
- Acid, alkaline, neutral
Garden uses
Notes
Spiny pincushion cactus (Mammillaria spinosissima) is a succulent for containers, borders, 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 stays evergreen and tolerates drought, so it needs little care. It sits low on the menu for deer and rabbits.
Pairs well with Tuscan Blue rosemary, Mexican daisy, and Big sagebrush.
Native range
North America.