Scientific name: Mammillaria gracilis fragilis
Common name: Thimble Cactus
The small cactus has a cylindrical green body covered in white spines. The thimble cactus grows in clusters and is very easy to grow. You can see small flowers in cooler months.
Quick Look at Mammillaria gracilis fragilis
- Full sun to partial shade
- Typical water needs for a succulent
- Plant grows up to 4″ (10 cm) tall
Heads grow up to 2″ (5 cm) wide each - Zone 10a (Minimum 30° F | -1.1° C)
- Not cold hardy
- Propagation by offsets
- Generally non-toxic to humans and animals
- Winter Dormant
General Care for Mammillaria gracilis fragilis “Thimble Cactus”
It’s perfect for beginners because it grows well indoors.
Watering
Mammillarria gracilis fragilis has watering needs. The “soak and dry” method will allow the soil to dry out completely between waterings.
Where to Plant
If you live in a zone that gets colder than 30 F, it’s best to plant it in a container that can be brought indoors. It does well in both full and partial sun.
You can plant in an area of your garden that gets 6 hours of sunlight a day. If you’re in the Northern Hemisphere, place a room that gets a lot of sunlight near a southern-facing window.
How to Propagate Mammillaria gracilis fragilis “Thimble Cactus”
Thimble Cactus is perfect for ground cover.
Offsets
Small offsets can be produced by clumps around the main tubercles. You can remove the offsets with a pair of tongs and a knife. Allow the offset to dry before replanting.
Flowering Information
The flowers are in the early spring to winter. You can see off-white to yellow flowers.
