Feather Cactus (Mammillaria plumosa)

Feather Cactus

Mammillaria plumosa

Soft feathery spines wrap each areole like tiny snowballs. Clumping succulent cactus; common name: Feather Cactus.

Full sun
1/week
Beginner
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Plant Needs

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Sunlight Bright direct sunlight for 6–8 hours daily; tolerate partial shade during extreme midday summer heat
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Watering Water deeply only when the entire soil volume is completely dry; avoid standing water to prevent root rot
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Temperature Thrives at 18–30°C; tolerate brief cold down to 5°C if kept completely dry
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Characteristics

  • Stem: Globular, clumping, covered in dense white feathery spines
  • Spines: Radial spines are fine, hair-like, forming a soft, woolly coating
  • Flower: Small, pale yellow to white, funnel-shaped, blooming around the stem apex
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Care Guide

Watering

Water when top 5 cm of soil is fully dry; allow excess water to drain completely

Fertilization

Diluted low-nitrogen cactus fertilizer once monthly. Do not fertilize in winter when the plant is dormant

Eggshell powder topdressing:Crush dried eggshells into fine powder; sprinkle lightly on the soil surface; avoid direct contact with the cactus stems to prevent irritation
Pruning
  • Remove dead or shriveled offsets to maintain a tidy clumping habit
  • Trim any discolored or damaged stem sections with sterile tools
  • Repot in spring if clumps outgrow the container; handle gently to avoid breaking the delicate spines
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Toxicity

Warning: this plant may be toxic.

Pets & Humans

Pets: ASPCA: Non-toxic; no known adverse effects on cats

Humans: No known toxic effects on humans

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Garden Uses & Culture

Culture: N/A

Usage: Ornamental succulent for indoor windowsills, dish gardens, and outdoor rock gardens