Owl Eye Pincushion

Mammillaria parkinsonii

Light

Water

Low water; soak thoroughly, then let soil dry completely. Water sparingly during extreme heat if growth slows, and keep nearly dry in winter.

Size

0.5-1 ft tall × 1-2 ft wide

Habit

Barrel/globular cactus – clustering

Toxicity

Non-toxic (spines)

Description

A slow-growing Mexican cactus with rounded green stems densely covered in white spines and wool. Mature heads often divide into paired crowns resembling owl eyes.

Bloom Time

Spring

Deciduous / Evergreen

Evergreen

Special Features

Drought Tolerant, Thorny / Spiny

Growth Rate

Slow

Growth Habit

Barrel/globular cactus – clustering

Mature Size

0.5-1 ft tall × 1-2 ft wide

Flower Color

Pink to cream

Foliage Color

Green stems with white and brown spines

Landscape Use

Border / Bed, Cactus / Succulent Garden, Container / Patio, Desert / Xeriscape

Garden Style

Container / Patio, Desert / Xeriscape

Soil

Moist Soil

Companion Plants

Afternoon-shaded settings, Feather cactus, Small Gasteria species, Thimble cactus

Non-toxic (spines)

Non-toxic (spines cause mechanical injury)

Care Instructions

Light: Bright light with morning sun and afternoon shade in Phoenix; protect from intense summer sun and reflected heat.

Water: Low water; soak thoroughly, then let soil dry completely. Water sparingly during extreme heat if growth slows, and keep nearly dry in winter.

Soil: Very fast-draining cactus mix with abundant pumice, coarse grit, or perlite; avoid moisture-retentive soil.

Mature size: Individual stems approximately 6 inches tall and 4–6 inches wide; older plants form clusters 12–24 inches across.

Bloom: Small flowers typically appear in late winter through spring on mature plants.

Evergreen / deciduous: Evergreen.

Growth rate: Slow.