Owl's Eyes Mammillaria parkinsonii
ABOUT
Mammillaria parkinsonii, commonly known as Owl's Eye Cactus, is a striking succulent plant that captures the eye with its distinctive appearance. The main characteristic of this slow-growing cactus is its spherical to somewhat elongated shape. The surface of the cactus is covered in a pattern of tight, spirally arranged tubercles or bumps. Each tubercle is tipped with a cluster of spines. Generally, these spines are arranged in a star-like formation, with one long, thicker spine often darker in color, surrounded by smaller, radial spines that can be white or yellowish, giving the plant a speckled appearance when viewed from a distance. The Owl's Eye Cactus is aptly named due to the woolliness in the areoles, which are the regions from where the spines emerge, resembling an owl's eyes nestled among the spines. The overall coloration of the plant varies from a deep green to blue-green, contributing to its lush appearance. During the blooming season, it produces lovely cream to yellow-colored flowers that encircle the crown of the cactus like a diadem. These flowers contrast beautifully with the green body of the plant. After flowering, the cactus may develop small, red to purple fruit that adds an additional decorative touch. The cactus has a firm, fleshy body that serves to store water, enabling the plant to thrive in arid environments. This resilience and its unique ornamental look make the Owl's Eye Cactus a desirable plant for succulent enthusiasts and collectors. Its intricate pattern of spines, charming flowers, and the eye-catching contrast between the woolliness of the areoles and the hardy body of the cactus create a captivating visual appeal.
About this plant
NamesSynonyms
Owl's Eyes Cactus, Hen and Chicks.
Common names
Mammillaria neoparkinsonii.
ToxicityTo humans
The plant commonly known as Owl's Eyes is not known for being poisonous to humans, meaning that it does not contain toxins that would cause poisoning if touched or ingested. However, as with all cacti, caution should be exercised due to the sharp spines and potential skin irritation from handling the plant. In general, it is not advisable to ingest parts of decorative plants or cacti, as they can cause discomfort, indigestion, or allergic reactions in some people.
To pets
The Owl's Eyes plant is also not known for being toxic to pets. Nevertheless, the spines of the cactus can cause physical injury if a pet attempts to bite or swallow the plant. While toxicity is not a concern, ingestion can lead to mechanical injuries or gastrointestinal obstruction. It's always best to keep cacti out of reach of pets to prevent any accidents.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Evergreen
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Cream
Height
4 inches (10 cm)
Spread
6 inches (15 cm)
Plant type
Cactus
Hardiness zones
9
Native area
Mexico
Benefits
General Benefits- Ornamental Attraction: Mammillaria parkinsonii, commonly known as Owl's Eyes Cactus, has a distinctive appearance with its spiraling ridges and woolly areoles that make it an appealing decorative plant for cactus enthusiasts and gardeners.
- Drought Tolerance: Being a cactus, it is highly adapted to arid environments, requiring minimal water and care, which makes it suitable for xeriscaping and low-water-use gardens.
- Easy Propagation: Owl's Eyes Cactus can easily be propagated from offsets or seeds, allowing gardeners to multiply their collection or share with others.
- Pest Resistance: This cactus is generally resistant to pests and diseases, reducing the need for chemical treatments and making it an eco-friendlier gardening choice.
- Small Footprint: Its compact size makes it ideal for cultivation in small spaces such as windowsills, balconies, and patios.
- Longevity: Cacti are known for their longevity, which means Owl's Eyes Cactus can be a long-term addition to a garden or plant collection with proper care.
- Minimal Soil Requirements: Mammillaria parkinsonii can thrive in poor, well-drained soils where other plants might struggle, making it useful for rocky or sandy gardens.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Mammillaria parkinsonii, commonly known as the owl's eye cactus, has been traditionally used as a decorative and novelty item due to its unique spherical shape and pattern of spines resembling an owl's eyes.
- This cactus is also used by enthusiasts in the art of miniaturized landscapes, like dish gardens, due to its small size and slow growth habit.
- The owl's eye cactus is sometimes incorporated into jewelry, where the small cacti or their seeds are set into terrarium pendants or live plant rings.
- Cultivators also graft Mammillaria parkinsonii onto more rapidly growing cactus stock to create interesting and unusual plant specimens that combine different textures and colors.
- Its ability to produce attractive pink flowers makes the owl's eye cactus a popular choice for wedding favors, specially themed events, and as a natural decoration on special occasions.
- Hobbyists may use this cactus species as part of educational kits for children and adults alike to learn about desert plant life and the care of succulents.
- Some people use Mammillaria parkinsonii in creating cactus bonsai, a unique twist combining traditional bonsai art with these hardy desert plants.
- In photography, the owl's eye cactus is often used as a subject for macro photography due to its intricate spine patterns and the contrast between its soft flesh and hard thorns.
- Artists might find inspiration in the form of this cactus for paintings, illustrations, and sculptures, capturing its distinct spherical and spiked appearance.
- As a gift, Mammillaria parkinsonii can be given as a symbol of protection and endurance, given its spiny exterior and ability to thrive in harsh conditions.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Owl's Eye cactus is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Owl's Eye cactus is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Resilience: Mammillaria parkinsonii, also known as "Owl's Eye Cactus," often symbolizes resilience due to its ability to thrive in harsh, arid environments where other plants might perish.
- Independence: As a cactus, the Owl's Eye Cactus is adapted to survive with minimal care and water, representing the quality of independence and self-sufficiency.
- Protection: With its characteristic sharp spines, the Owl's Eye Cactus is often seen as a symbol of protection, guarding itself against herbivores and other potential threats.
- Adaptability: Its ability to adjust to extreme conditions makes the Owl's Eye Cactus a symbol of adaptability and the capacity to adjust to challenging circumstances.
WaterThe Mammillaria parkinsonii, also known as Owl's Eye Cactus, should be watered when the soil is completely dry. During the growing seasons of spring and summer, you may water it once a week using roughly 8-12 ounces of water per session, depending on the size of the pot. In the dormant winter months, watering should be reduced to once every three to four weeks. Always water the soil directly, avoiding getting water on the body of the cactus to prevent rot. It is crucial to have a pot with good drainage to prevent water from pooling at the bottom and causing root rot.
LightOwl's Eye Cactus thrives best under bright, indirect sunlight. It is well-suited for an east or west-facing window where it can receive plenty of light without the scorching midday sun. If only direct sunlight is available, it's advisable to provide some shade to prevent sunburn, especially during the hottest parts of the day.
TemperatureThe Owl's Eye Cactus prefers temperatures between 70°F and 80°F which are ideal for its growth. It can survive minimum temperatures down to 50°F and a maximum of up to about 90°F. However, temperatures below freezing can damage or kill the plant, so it should be kept away from frost.
PruningPruning of the Owl's Eye Cactus is typically done to remove dead or damaged spines and to maintain its shape. This cactus does not require regular pruning, but any necessary pruning should be done in the spring or early summer. Use a pair of tweezers or small tongs to gently remove any unwanted materials.
CleaningAs needed
SoilOwl's Eye Cactus thrives in a well-draining cactus mix with added perlite or pumice for aeration. The ideal soil pH for Owl's Eye Cactus is between 6.0 and 7.5.
RepottingOwl's Eye Cactus should be repotted every 2-3 years or when it outgrows its pot, ensuring fresh nutrients and room for growth.
Humidity & MistingOwl's Eye Cactus prefers low humidity levels, typical of its native desert habitat.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place Owl's Eye Cactus in bright light, away from high humidity.
Outdoor
Grow Owl's Eye Cactus in full sun or partial shade, protect from heavy rain.
Hardiness zone
9-11 USDA
Life cycleThe life of the Mammillaria parkinsonii, commonly known as Owl's Eyes Cactus, begins with a germination stage, where seeds sprout in well-draining soil with warm temperatures and some moisture. Following germination, the seedlings develop into juvenile plants with small, globular bodies covered in white wool and spines, which photosynthesize and store water. As the plant matures, it grows in size and can produce offsets or "pups" around its base, a form of vegetative reproduction extending its presence in its habitat. The mature cactus eventually blooms with funnel-shaped flowers, typically in shades of cream to yellow, emerging from the woolly areoles during spring or summer. After pollination, which is often aided by insects, the flowers develop into small, fleshy fruits containing seeds, thereby completing the reproductive cycle. The plant can live for many years, continuing to grow and produce flowers and seeds seasonally.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-Early Summer
Mammillaria parkinsonii, commonly known as Owl's Eye Cactus, can be propagated most effectively through seed sowing. To propagate Owl's Eye Cactus from seeds, one should ideally begin in the spring or summer when temperatures are warm, as this is when the seeds will have the best chance to germinate. Start by filling a shallow tray or pot with a well-draining cactus mix and scatter the seeds evenly over the soil surface. Gently press the seeds into the soil but do not cover them, as light aids germination. Water the soil lightly using a fine spray to avoid disturbing the seeds. The tray should then be placed in a warm area with indirect sunlight, and the surface should be kept moist until germination occurs, which can take anywhere from a few weeks to several months. Once seedlings appear, they can be gradually acclimatized to less frequent watering and more sunlight.
