Pincushion Cactus Mammillaria sphaerica
ABOUT
Mammillaria sphaerica, commonly known as Round Pincushion Cactus, is characterized by its globular shape, which can eventually elongate to take on a more cylindrical form. The surface of the plant is adorned with numerous protrusions known as tubercles, giving it a heavily textured appearance. These tubercles are arranged in a spiral pattern and terminate with clusters of spines that emerge from the center of each tubercle. The spines themselves vary in color from white to yellow, and they often have a reddish or brownish hue at the base, forming a contrasting crown of sorts around the top of the tubercles. Typically, the Round Pincushion Cactus will have one to several central spines that are stronger, longer, and more pronounced, surrounded by a halo of shorter, more delicate radial spines that provide a dense, protective covering. During the blooming season, the plant produces attractive rings of flowers that encircle its upper portion. These flowers are funnel-shaped and can range in color from white to pink, with some having subtler hues and others sporting more vibrant tones. The blooms emerge from the axils near the top of the tubercles, providing a splash of color that contrasts nicely with the spines and the green to bluish-green body of the plant. With age, the Round Pincushion Cactus may produce offsets, resulting in small clusters of individual globes that collectively give the appearance of a miniature cactus garden rising from a single root system. This charming and compact appearance makes it a popular choice for cactus enthusiasts and collectors who appreciate its textured structure and ornate spiny display.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Cactaceae.
Synonyms
Round Pincushion Cactus, Biznaga De Lima.
Common names
Neomammillaria sphaerica, Chilita sphaerica, Ebnerella sphaerica
ToxicityTo humans
Mammillaria sphaerica, commonly known as the pincushion cactus, is not considered toxic to humans. There are no well-documented cases of poisoning from ingesting parts of this plant. However, caution should be exercised, as the spines of this cactus can cause physical injury if handled improperly.
To pets
The pincushion cactus is not known to be toxic to pets. Nonetheless, ingestion can lead to gastrointestinal problems due to the physical nature of the spines, which can cause irritation or injury to the mouth, throat, or stomach. It is advisable to keep this plant away from pets to prevent any accidental injury from its spines.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Evergreen
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Pink
Height
4 inches (10 cm)
Spread
6 inches (15 cm)
Plant type
Cactus
Hardiness zones
9
Native area
Mexico
Benefits
General Benefits- Aesthetic appeal: Mammillaria sphaerica, commonly known as Pincushion Cactus, adds visual interest to gardens and homes with its unique spherical shape and attractive spines.
- Low maintenance: As a succulent, Pincushion Cactus requires minimal care, making it ideal for busy plant owners or those with little gardening experience.
- Drought tolerance: Pincushion Cactus is highly tolerant of drought conditions, conserving water and thriving in arid climates where other plants might struggle.
- Habitat for wildlife: The flowers of Mammillaria sphaerica can provide nectar for pollinators like bees, contributing to local ecosystems.
- Compact size: Its small stature makes Pincushion Cactus well-suited for indoor spaces and small gardens where space is limited.
- Educational interest: Amateur botanists and hobbyists often enjoy growing Mammillaria sphaerica due to its interesting morphology and the educational value of caring for a cactus species.
- Adaptability: Pincushion Cactus can adapt to a variety of indoor conditions, making it a versatile plant for different home environments.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Artistic Arrangements: Mammillaria sphaerica can be used by artists and crafters to create beautiful, naturalistic arrangements in terrariums, fairy gardens, or as live sculptures due to its distinctive spherical shape.
- Photography Subject: Its unique globular structure and intricate spines make it a popular subject for macro photography and botanical illustration.
- Educational Resource: This cactus could serve as an educational tool for botany classes, illustrating adaptations of desert plants, such as water storage in swollen stems and the beauty of cactus flowers.
- Collector’s Item: Plant enthusiasts often collect various species of cacti, including Mammillaria sphaerica, to add to specialized or thematic plant collections due to their unique appearance and rarity.
- Symbolic Gift: Gifting the cactus can symbolize resilience and endurance, making it a meaningful present for those going through challenging times.
- Feng Shui: Some adherents believe that placing cacti like Mammillaria sphaerica in certain areas of the home or office can protect against negative energy or introduce balance.
- Stress Relief: Caring for this cactus can be a form of stress relief or a therapeutic hobby for people who enjoy indoor gardening and the nurturing of plants.
- Zen Gardens: The Mammillaria sphaerica can be used in miniature zen gardens to provide an aspect of natural beauty and aid in meditation and relaxation efforts.
- Landscaping: In regions where the climate is suitable, this cactus can be incorporated into drought-resistant xeriscaping, a landscaping method that conserves water.
- Cultural Symbol: In some cultures, cacti like Mammillaria sphaerica can represent protection and warmth due to their ability to survive in harsh conditions.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Pincushion Cactus is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Pincushion Cactus is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Resilience: Mammillaria sphaerica, commonly known as the Pincushion Cactus, often symbolizes resilience due to its ability to thrive in harsh, arid environments.
- Protection: The sharp spines of the Pincushion Cactus represent protection and defense, indicating the plant's capacity to guard itself against predators and the elements.
- Independence: This cactus's capacity to store water and sustain itself without frequent watering makes it a symbol of independence and self-sufficiency.
- Adaptation: The Pincushion Cactus symbolizes adaptation, as it can adjust to extreme conditions and even grow in nutrient-poor soils.
- Beauty in Simplicity: Despite its spiky exterior, the Pincushion Cactus can produce beautiful flowers, signifying that true beauty often lies in simplicity and unexpected places.
WaterFor the Pincushion cactus, it's crucial to maintain a balance in watering; during the growing season in spring and summer, they should be watered thoroughly when the top inch of soil feels dry, which could be approximately once a week, depending on environmental conditions. Use enough water so that it runs out of the drainage holes, which could be around 8 to 16 ounces for a small to medium-sized pot every watering session. In the fall and winter, reduce watering to once every four to six weeks as the plant goes dormant. Over-watering can lead to root rot, so ensure the potting mix is well-draining and the pot has drainage holes.
LightThe Pincushion cactus thrives best in bright, indirect sunlight or partial shade. It should be placed in a spot where it receives several hours of sunlight daily but is protected from the harsh afternoon sun. East or west-facing windowsills are ideal locations as they provide plenty of light without the intensity of midday sun which can cause sunburn to the plant.
TemperatureThe Pincushion cactus prefers temperatures between 70°F and 95°F during its active growing season. It can tolerate temperatures as low as 45°F in dormancy during the winter months but should not be exposed to frost. The ideal temperature range promotes healthy growth and flowering.
PruningPruning of the Pincushion cactus is generally not necessary as it maintains a compact size. However, you may remove any dead or damaged spines or flowers using tweezers or a soft brush. Pruning, if needed, should be done after the flowering season to maintain the plant's natural round shape.
CleaningAs needed
SoilThe Royal Pincushion Cactus prefers a well-draining cactus potting mix composed of perlite, sand, and loamy soil in equal parts. The best pH range for this plant is slightly acidic to neutral, around 6.0 to 7.5.
RepottingRoyal Pincushion Cactus should be repotted every 2-3 years, or when it outgrows its current pot, to ensure continued health and growth.
Humidity & MistingRoyal Pincushion Cactus thrives in low humidity environments typical of arid habitats; thus, a dry atmosphere is ideal for this plant, avoiding high humidity levels.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Provide bright light, minimal water, good drainage.
Outdoor
Place in full sun to partial shade, protect from heavy rain.
Hardiness zone
9-11 USDA
Life cycleThe life of Mammillaria sphaerica, commonly known as the Round Pincushion Cactus, begins with seed germination, which requires warm temperatures and moderate moisture. Upon sprouting, seedlings slowly grow into juvenile cacti with a spherical shape and develop tubercles and spines that characterize the species. With age, the cactus matures and produces small, funnel-shaped flowers, typically pink or whitish in color, which bloom in a crown around the apex of the stem. After pollination, these flowers may develop into small fleshy fruits containing seeds that, when dispersed, can give rise to new plants. The Round Pincushion Cactus can also propagate vegetatively through offsets, which are small cacti that form at the base of the parent plant and can be separated and replanted. This cactus species can live for several decades, with individual plants often flowering annually once mature.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring to summer
The Mammillaria sphaerica, commonly known as the Pincushion Cactus, can be effectively propagated through seed sowing or by offsets. The most popular method of propagating this cactus is through its offsets, which are essentially small cacti that form at the base of the parent plant. These offsets can be carefully removed once they are a good size, typically around a couple of inches in diameter, and allowed to dry for a day or two. This drying period helps to form a callous over the cut surface, which reduces the risk of rot when the offset is planted. Once calloused, the offset can be planted in a well-draining cactus soil mix, positioned in a spot with bright but indirect sunlight, and watered sparingly to prevent rot. It is usually best to do this during the warmer months, as the warmer temperatures can stimulate root growth.
