Mammillaria prolifera | Clumping Pincushion Cactus

A Living Sculpture of Natural Abundance

Mammillaria prolifera - commonly known as the Texas nipple cactus, West Indian nipple cactus, grape cactus, or hair-covered cactus - is a clump-forming cactus species native to North America. It is admired for its compact, spherical heads and its remarkable ability to produce numerous offsets, forming dense, sculptural colonies over time. Fine, pale spines cover each head, giving the plant a softly textured, almost velvety appearance.

Mature specimens often flower in spring to early summer, producing rings of small, creamy-white to pale yellow blossoms that add a delicate seasonal accent to its architectural form.

Botanical Character & Aesthetic Value

This species is defined by repetition, rhythm, and balance. The naturally clustering habit of Mammillaria prolifera creates living compositions that evolve slowly and organically. Its restrained scale and soft spination make it particularly well suited to curated interiors, minimalist plant arrangements, and refined cactus collections. It is cultivated not for size, but for structure, texture, and longevity.

Cultivation & Care

• Light: Bright light to full sun; encourages compact growth and flowering

• Water: Moderate watering during the growing season; keep nearly dry in winter

• Soil: Very well-drained, mineral-rich cactus substrate

• Hardiness: Not frost-hardy; protect from temperatures below 5 °C

• Growth Habit: Slow to moderate growth; freely offsetting and clump-forming

Sustainability & Longevity

When grown with restraint - ample light, careful watering, and minimal fertilisation - Mammillaria prolifera develops strong roots and stable clusters that remain attractive for many years. Its natural tendency to propagate through offsets makes it a sustainable species for long-term cultivation.

A Note from TOMs FLOWer CLUB

All Mammillaria prolifera plants offered by TOMs FLOWer CLUB come from our own collection and are organically cultivated, fully established, and never over-fertilised. Each specimen is selected for healthy root systems, balanced clumping, and refined form - ideal for discerning collectors and thoughtfully curated plant spaces.

You get the pot with several established and regularly flowering plants of the displayed size.