Mammillaria plumosa - Feather Cactus

Highlights

Feather Cactus (Mammillaria plumosa) (F.A.C. Weber): A cuddly cactus that has traded its spines for piles of fluff! Its "spines" are so feathery that it looks more like a baby bird than a cactus. This species from Northeastern Mexico can grow to about 5.0" tall and 16.0" wide as mounded clusters of small, round offsets. Tiny, pink and white striped flowers tend to appear in late summer and have a sweet fragrance. After trials by the Royal Horticultural Society, M. plumosa earned the Award of Garden Merit for its appearance and vigor.

Please note: The fluffy covering makes this species particularly susceptible to rot; water very sparingly and avoid getting the feathery spines wet.

This variety of cactus will not survive a frost, but if there is a risk of freezing temperatures it can be brought indoors to grow on a sunny window sill or under a grow light. Cactus need bright sunlight, great drainage, and infrequent water to prevent rot. Pick containers with drainage holes and use well-draining cactus and succulent soil with 70% to 80% mineral grit such as coarse sand, pumice, or perlite. Water deeply and wait for the soil to completely dry out before watering again.

Full Cactus Guide

Product Size

2.0" Pot

Current Primary Color

White

Bloom Color

White Bloom

Grow Zone (Hardiness)

Zone 10 (30F)

Recommended Light Conditions

Bright Indoor Light

Recommended Light Conditions

Full Sun

Maximum Height

3"-5"

Growth Habit / Shape

Clumping / Mounding

Special Characteristic

Showy Blooms

Special Characteristic

Slow Grower

THIS PLANT IS HARDY IN ZONES 10+

10

WHAT IS MY HARDINESS ZONE?

Zip Code

GO

0

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