Mammillaria is a genus of spiny cacti native to the desert regions of Central America, particularly Mexico. Plants usually form clusters of spherical or columnar stems, and bear funnel-shaped flowers.
Known as the old lady cactus, Mammillaria hahniana forms globe-shaped stems covered in fine white spines and white down, from which a circle of pretty pink flowers appears in spring. It’s the perfect cactus for beginners and makes a fine addition to any cactus collection. The multi-headed form bears several globe-shaped stems, as opposed to the one head of the single-headed form.
For best results grow Mammillaria hahniana in cactus compost in containers in full sun. Water from mid-spring to summer only, and feed once a month with a special cactus fertiliser. Like all cacti growing in a temperate climate, it’s best grown as a houseplant but containers may be moved to a sunny, sheltered patio in midsummer.
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Mammillaria and wildlife
Mammillaria has no particular known value to wildlife in the UK.
