The name Mammillaria comes from the Latine for "nipple", because the areolas (structures carrying the spines) are carried by nipple like structures instead of being organized in ribs like many other cacti. Another significant difference is that the flowers are not coming from the areola, but from the area at the juncture of 2 tubercles.

As could be expected from so many species, their growing requirements are quite varied. Many species are easy and fast to grow and to get to bloom while young, this is why they are very popular Some are quite hardy while others will rot easily if kept too cold. All of them require excellent drainage. This is more easily accomplished by using a good cactus soil mixture, and using a shallow pot.

In general the Mammillarias bloom easily, but many species need a rest period in winter during which they are kept cool in order to bloom. Furthermore flowers form a ring on tissue grown the previous growing season, so it is important to get them to grow every year, which means regular watering and fertilizing during their growing period.

Mammillaria (Dolichothele) longimamma

Mammillaria prolifera

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