Mammillaria candida – Snowball Cactus

Mammillaria candida - Snowball Cactus

Mammillaria candida, popularly called Snowball Cactus, is an appealing small cactus native to the rocky terrains of central Mexico. Esteemed for its dense covering of bright white spines, it is particularly admired when it blooms with delicate, pale pink flowers.

Distinctive Features

• Spines: Dense, white, radial spines completely covering the globular body, giving a snow-covered appearance.
• Flowers: Small, pale pink flowers arranged in a charming circular pattern around the apex, blooming typically in spring.
• Growth Habit: Globular, forming clusters of compact spherical heads with age, remaining low-growing.

Care Notes

• Light: Thrives in bright sunlight; provide some afternoon shade in extremely hot climates.
• Water: Water sparingly, allowing soil to fully dry out between watering; reduce significantly during winter months.
• Humidity: Prefers low humidity; ideal for typical indoor environments or dry climates.
• Temperature: Optimal growth between 18°C and 27°C; sensitive to frost, requiring protection below 5°C.
• Fertiliser: Apply a cactus-specific fertiliser once monthly during the growing season at half strength.
• Repotting: Repot every 2-3 years in spring, using a well-draining cactus potting mixture.

Additional Notes

• Easy to cultivate, suitable for beginners and experienced collectors alike.
• Ideal for small spaces, windowsills, and rock gardens due to its compact form.
• Handle carefully; dense spines can be prickly.
• Non-toxic to pets, though caution is advised due to the spines.

Mammillaria candida makes a delightful addition to any cactus collection, admired not only for its aesthetic spines but also for its beautiful springtime floral displays.