PXL_20260110_142634981.PORTRAIT.ORIGINAL.jpg
PXL_20260110_142634981.PORTRAIT.ORIGINAL.jpg

Rainbow Pincushion Cactus

$10.00

A Vibrant Halo of Color

The Mammillaria rhodantha, also affectionately known as the Rainbow Pincushion or Pink Spined Mammillaria, is an old favorite in the succulent world. Native to the high-altitude regions of Mexico, this cactus is prized for its symmetrical beauty and its incredibly long blooming season, often outperforming almost any other cactus in its floral display.

  • Colorful Spine Variability: Its name "Rainbow" comes from the variable colors of its central spines, which can range from golden-yellow and orange to a rich reddish-brown. These spines stand out against the radial white spines, creating a multi-toned, textured appearance.

  • The Magenta "Party Hat": This species is famous for its prolific flowering. Throughout spring, summer, and often again in autumn, it produces a dense ring of funnel-shaped, deep magenta to purple flowers around the top of the stem, making it look like it's wearing a vibrant floral crown.

  • Architectural Growth: It typically begins as a solitary, dark green globe but matures into a short, sturdy column. Over time, it may divide or form small clumps, reaching up to 12 inches in height, making it a perfect vertical accent for small spaces.

  • Woolly Apex: Mature specimens often develop a soft, white woolly coating at the very top (apex), which provides a beautiful, snowy contrast to the brightly colored spines and flowers.

  • All potted plants are local pickup only. Shipped plants will be bare root (no pot or soil).

A Vibrant Halo of Color

The Mammillaria rhodantha, also affectionately known as the Rainbow Pincushion or Pink Spined Mammillaria, is an old favorite in the succulent world. Native to the high-altitude regions of Mexico, this cactus is prized for its symmetrical beauty and its incredibly long blooming season, often outperforming almost any other cactus in its floral display.

  • Colorful Spine Variability: Its name "Rainbow" comes from the variable colors of its central spines, which can range from golden-yellow and orange to a rich reddish-brown. These spines stand out against the radial white spines, creating a multi-toned, textured appearance.

  • The Magenta "Party Hat": This species is famous for its prolific flowering. Throughout spring, summer, and often again in autumn, it produces a dense ring of funnel-shaped, deep magenta to purple flowers around the top of the stem, making it look like it's wearing a vibrant floral crown.

  • Architectural Growth: It typically begins as a solitary, dark green globe but matures into a short, sturdy column. Over time, it may divide or form small clumps, reaching up to 12 inches in height, making it a perfect vertical accent for small spaces.

  • Woolly Apex: Mature specimens often develop a soft, white woolly coating at the very top (apex), which provides a beautiful, snowy contrast to the brightly colored spines and flowers.

  • All potted plants are local pickup only. Shipped plants will be bare root (no pot or soil).

Mammillaria rhodantha

Care and Growing

The Rainbow Pincushion is a beginner-friendly cactus that is exceptionally easy to grow and very rewarding with its frequent blooms.

  • Light Needs: Requires Full Sun to Bright, Intense Light. If grown indoors, a south- or west-facing window is ideal. High light levels are necessary to maintain the intensity of the spine colors and to trigger its signature flowering ring.

  • Water Needs: Low. Use the "soak and dry" method. Water thoroughly only when the soil has dried out completely. In winter, suspend watering almost entirely to allow the plant to rest in its dormant phase.

  • Soil Needs: Must have Highly Porous, Fast-Draining Soil. A commercial cactus mix amended with extra grit, pumice, or perlite is perfect to prevent root rot.

  • Temperature & Hardiness: Not Cold Hardy (Hardy to USDA Zone 9b–11). It can tolerate brief dips near freezing if kept dry, but it is best kept in temperatures above 50F.


At-Home Care

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