Close-up of Feather Cactus ‘Mammillaria pulmosa’ with white feathery spines, two cream flowers, and gravel topping in the pot.
Close-up of Feather Cactus ‘Mammillaria pulmosa’ with green clusters and soft, white, star-shaped spines.
Close-up of the Feather Cactus ‘Mammillaria pulmosa’ with dense, white feathery spines and green patches in a small pebble-filled pot.
Feather Cactus ‘Mammillaria pulmosa’ with dense white spines, clustered in brown containers filled with pebbles.
Feather Cactus ‘Mammillaria pulmosa’ with soft white spines in a small pot of gravel and pebbles, shown against a dark background.
Close-up of Feather Cactus ‘Mammillaria pulmosa’ with soft, white, hair-like spines in a small pot filled with rocky soil.
Close-up of a Feather Cactus (Mammillaria plumosa) with delicate white spines and small pale pink flowers blooming among pebbles.
The Feather Cactus ‘Mammillaria pulmosa’ features a round, white, fuzzy body and pale pink buds in a gravel-filled planter.
A round Feather Cactus Mammillaria pulmosa with white-pink flowers blooms on small pebbles, framed by green dividers.
Close-up of a Feather Cactus ‘Mammillaria pulmosa’ with white, fuzzy surface and pale pink flowers in a pot with small rocks.
Close-up of Feather Cactus ‘Mammillaria pulmosa’, showing its soft, feathery spines and unique texture; ideal as an indoor plant.
Cluster of small, fuzzy Mammillaria pulmosa Feather Cactus in a reddish-brown pot with light gravel, against a soft green background.
Cluster of small, round Feather Cactus ‘Mammillaria pulmosa’ in a brown pot with light pebbles, set before a blurred green background.
Cluster of small, round Feather Cactus ‘Mammillaria pulmosa’ in a terracotta pot with light pebbles, on a blurred green backdrop.
Close-up of Feather Cactus (Mammillaria plumosa) with its soft, white, fuzzy spines, set against a blurred natural green background.
Close-up of Mammillaria pulmosa Feather Cactus showing dense white, hair-like spines over a soft, pale green surface.
Close-up of Feather Cactus ‘Mammillaria pulmosa’ with soft white spines and round forms, set against a blurred sky and green background.
A cluster of small, round Feather Cactus (Mammillaria plumosa) in an orange pot with pebbles, set against a clear blue sky.
Feather Cactus ‘Mammillaria pulmosa’ cluster in a brown plastic pot with light rocks, displayed against a dark background.
A cluster of white, fuzzy Feather Cactus (Mammillaria plumosa) in a red pot with light gravel, set against a blurred green background.
A cluster of small, round, white Feather Cactus ‘Mammillaria pulmosa’ in a brown plastic pot with tan rocks on a plain white background.
A group of small, white-fuzzy Feather Cactus (Mammillaria plumosa) in a brown plastic pot with rocky soil on a plain white background.
Close-up of Feather Cactus ‘Mammillaria pulmosa’ with white feathery spines, two cream flowers, and gravel topping in the pot.
Close-up of Feather Cactus ‘Mammillaria pulmosa’ with green clusters and soft, white, star-shaped spines.
Close-up of the Feather Cactus ‘Mammillaria pulmosa’ with dense, white feathery spines and green patches in a small pebble-filled pot.
Feather Cactus ‘Mammillaria pulmosa’ with dense white spines, clustered in brown containers filled with pebbles.
Feather Cactus ‘Mammillaria pulmosa’ with soft white spines in a small pot of gravel and pebbles, shown against a dark background.
Close-up of Feather Cactus ‘Mammillaria pulmosa’ with soft, white, hair-like spines in a small pot filled with rocky soil.
Close-up of a Feather Cactus (Mammillaria plumosa) with delicate white spines and small pale pink flowers blooming among pebbles.
The Feather Cactus ‘Mammillaria pulmosa’ features a round, white, fuzzy body and pale pink buds in a gravel-filled planter.
A round Feather Cactus Mammillaria pulmosa with white-pink flowers blooms on small pebbles, framed by green dividers.
Close-up of a Feather Cactus ‘Mammillaria pulmosa’ with white, fuzzy surface and pale pink flowers in a pot with small rocks.
Close-up of Feather Cactus ‘Mammillaria pulmosa’, showing its soft, feathery spines and unique texture; ideal as an indoor plant.
Cluster of small, fuzzy Mammillaria pulmosa Feather Cactus in a reddish-brown pot with light gravel, against a soft green background.
Cluster of small, round Feather Cactus ‘Mammillaria pulmosa’ in a brown pot with light pebbles, set before a blurred green background.
Cluster of small, round Feather Cactus ‘Mammillaria pulmosa’ in a terracotta pot with light pebbles, on a blurred green backdrop.
Close-up of Feather Cactus (Mammillaria plumosa) with its soft, white, fuzzy spines, set against a blurred natural green background.
Close-up of Mammillaria pulmosa Feather Cactus showing dense white, hair-like spines over a soft, pale green surface.
Close-up of Feather Cactus ‘Mammillaria pulmosa’ with soft white spines and round forms, set against a blurred sky and green background.
A cluster of small, round Feather Cactus (Mammillaria plumosa) in an orange pot with pebbles, set against a clear blue sky.
Feather Cactus ‘Mammillaria pulmosa’ cluster in a brown plastic pot with light rocks, displayed against a dark background.
A cluster of white, fuzzy Feather Cactus (Mammillaria plumosa) in a red pot with light gravel, set against a blurred green background.
A cluster of small, round, white Feather Cactus ‘Mammillaria pulmosa’ in a brown plastic pot with tan rocks on a plain white background.
A group of small, white-fuzzy Feather Cactus (Mammillaria plumosa) in a brown plastic pot with rocky soil on a plain white background.

Introducing the Mammillaria pulmosa, known as feather cactus, which is a fascinating cactus species that belongs to the Mammillaria genus. Native to the desert regions of Mexico, specifically in the states of San Luis Potosi, Queretaro, and Hidalgo, it has gained popularity due to its unique appearance and interesting characteristics.

Mammillaria pulmosa is a clustering cactus that is covered in dense, soft white spines that resemble feathers, giving it a delicate and fluffy appearance. These spines serve as a protective mechanism against predators and help to reduce water loss through evaporation.

The Feather Cactus ‘Mammillaria plumosa’ displays soft white clusters and dainty yellow-white blooms, ideal for indoor cactus collections.

When mature, it typically can grow up to 6 inches tall and 16 inches wide. The compact size of its mound of globose stems makes it a popular choice for indoor cultivation, as it can thrive in small pots or containers.

The Feather Cactus is known for its slow growth rate, so it may take several years to reach its full size.

The flowers of Mammillaria pulmosa are typically small and dainty, adding a touch of charm to the already captivating appearance of the cactus.

It produces beautiful creamy white, greenish-yellow, or dull pink with sweet fragrance during the late summer.

To improve flowering in Millillaria cacti, allow them to cool in winter and suspend watering. They have raised tubercles that expand when watered, allowing for increased water storage. The halo effect of flowers emerges from the axils of these tubercles, indicating their unique growth. Avoid prolonged dampness and sitting water, and never let them sit in water. Fertilize once a year in the spring during the growing season for optimal results.

When it comes to Mammillaria pulmosa care, indoors it prefers the southern-facing window, and outdoors in full sun to partial sun-light with well-draining soil.  If kept in a sunny location, Feather cactus will need to be watered once a week. You may need to water it once every two weeks if it is in a semi-shaded area. 

The Feather Cactus can grow outdoors in USDA zones 9 to 11 and is also frost hardy to 20° F. As it prefers warmer indoor temperatures between 65-75 °F, it should not be exposed to freezing temperatures for too long. During the winter months, it's best to reduce watering as the cactus goes into a period of dormancy.

When it comes to propagation, Mammillaria pulmosa can be propagated through offsets or seeds. Offsets, also known as "pups," are small plantlets that grow around the base of the parent plant. These can be carefully separated and replanted to create new individual plants. Alternatively, you can collect ripe seeds from the flowers and sow them in well-draining soil to start new plants.

Overall, the Mammillaria pulmosa, or Feather Cactus, is a delightful addition to any cactus collection. You can never go wrong with the Mammillaria Plumosa Feather Cactus. Caring for this succulent plant is not difficult at all, and they will repay you by being one-of-a-kind cacti. You should definitely try this fresh breathy plant once either to impress your guests or simply to feel good.

Bloom Season

Late summer

Flower Color

Creamy white--greenish yellow--dull pink

Growth Rate

Slow

Hardiness Zone

9--10--11

Mature Size

6 in. tall--16 in. wide

Plant Type

Flowering plant--Cactus

Resistance

Extremely drought-tolerant--Heat tolerant--deer resistance

Sun Exposure

Full sun (6+ hrs.)-- Partial shade (3–6 hrs. sun)

Watering Needs

Low
Bloom Season Late summer
Botanical Name Mammillaria plumosa
Common Name Feather cactus
Dormancy Winter
Family Cactaceae
Flower Color Creamy white, greenish yellow, dull pink
Genus Mammillaria
Growth Habit Globular stem
Growth Rate Slow
Hardiness Zone 9, 10, 11
Mature Size 6 in. tall, 16 in. wide
Native Area Northeastern Mexico
Plant Type Flowering plant, Cactus
Propagation By cuttings, offsets
Resistance Extremely drought-tolerant, Heat tolerant, deer resistance
Soil PH 6.5, Acidic, Neutral
Soil Type Cactus potting mix soil
Special Features Soft, fluffy, evergreen plant
Sun Exposure Full sun (6+ hrs.), Partial shade (3–6 hrs. sun)
Toxicity Friendly to humans, friendly to dogs, friendly to cats
Watering Needs Low
Back To Plant Description Main Page

Growers Quick Reference Guide - Key Features

Bloom Season Late summer
Botanical Name Mammillaria plumosa
Common Name Feather cactus
Dormancy Winter
Family Cactaceae
Flower Color Creamy white, greenish yellow, dull pink
Genus Mammillaria
Growth Habit Globular stem
Growth Rate Slow
Hardiness Zone 9, 10, 11
Mature Size 6 in. tall, 16 in. wide
Native Area Northeastern Mexico
Plant Type Flowering plant, Cactus
Propagation By cuttings, offsets
Resistance Extremely drought-tolerant, Heat tolerant, deer resistance
Soil PH 6.5, Acidic, Neutral
Soil Type Cactus potting mix soil
Special Features Soft, fluffy, evergreen plant
Sun Exposure Full sun (6+ hrs.), Partial shade (3–6 hrs. sun)
Toxicity Friendly to humans, friendly to dogs, friendly to cats
Watering Needs Low

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Feather Cactus ‘Mammillaria pulmosa’

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Please note: Our large plants are many years old, and as a result, they might have minor scaring but will arrive 100% healthy and looking great.

Please note: Our large plants are shipped bare root. They are also many years old, and as a result, they might have minor scaring but will arrive healthy and looking great.

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Any plant that is 6" and larger that is not in our Houseplant category will be shipped bare root (without a pot).

What makes us different is the passion and the attention to detail in all we do here at Planet Desert. We are confident in the quality of our products. That’s why all our plants have a 100% satisfaction guarantee.

If you are not 100% satisfied with your purchase, you can return the product and get a refund or exchange it for another one — similar or not. Shipping charges may apply.

You can return a product for up to 14 days from the date of purchase. Please submit photos with your order number to info@planetdesert.com to initiate your return. Shipping fees may apply.

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  • Description
  • Key Plant Features

Introducing the Mammillaria pulmosa, known as feather cactus, which is a fascinating cactus species that belongs to the Mammillaria genus. Native to the desert regions of Mexico, specifically in the states of San Luis Potosi, Queretaro, and Hidalgo, it has gained popularity due to its unique appearance and interesting characteristics.

Mammillaria pulmosa is a clustering cactus that is covered in dense, soft white spines that resemble feathers, giving it a delicate and fluffy appearance. These spines serve as a protective mechanism against predators and help to reduce water loss through evaporation.

The Feather Cactus ‘Mammillaria plumosa’ displays soft white clusters and dainty yellow-white blooms, ideal for indoor cactus collections.

When mature, it typically can grow up to 6 inches tall and 16 inches wide. The compact size of its mound of globose stems makes it a popular choice for indoor cultivation, as it can thrive in small pots or containers.

The Feather Cactus is known for its slow growth rate, so it may take several years to reach its full size.

The flowers of Mammillaria pulmosa are typically small and dainty, adding a touch of charm to the already captivating appearance of the cactus.

It produces beautiful creamy white, greenish-yellow, or dull pink with sweet fragrance during the late summer.

To improve flowering in Millillaria cacti, allow them to cool in winter and suspend watering. They have raised tubercles that expand when watered, allowing for increased water storage. The halo effect of flowers emerges from the axils of these tubercles, indicating their unique growth. Avoid prolonged dampness and sitting water, and never let them sit in water. Fertilize once a year in the spring during the growing season for optimal results.

When it comes to Mammillaria pulmosa care, indoors it prefers the southern-facing window, and outdoors in full sun to partial sun-light with well-draining soil.  If kept in a sunny location, Feather cactus will need to be watered once a week. You may need to water it once every two weeks if it is in a semi-shaded area. 

The Feather Cactus can grow outdoors in USDA zones 9 to 11 and is also frost hardy to 20° F. As it prefers warmer indoor temperatures between 65-75 °F, it should not be exposed to freezing temperatures for too long. During the winter months, it's best to reduce watering as the cactus goes into a period of dormancy.

When it comes to propagation, Mammillaria pulmosa can be propagated through offsets or seeds. Offsets, also known as "pups," are small plantlets that grow around the base of the parent plant. These can be carefully separated and replanted to create new individual plants. Alternatively, you can collect ripe seeds from the flowers and sow them in well-draining soil to start new plants.

Overall, the Mammillaria pulmosa, or Feather Cactus, is a delightful addition to any cactus collection. You can never go wrong with the Mammillaria Plumosa Feather Cactus. Caring for this succulent plant is not difficult at all, and they will repay you by being one-of-a-kind cacti. You should definitely try this fresh breathy plant once either to impress your guests or simply to feel good.

Bloom Season

Late summer

Flower Color

Creamy white--greenish yellow--dull pink

Growth Rate

Slow

Hardiness Zone

9--10--11

Mature Size

6 in. tall--16 in. wide

Plant Type

Flowering plant--Cactus

Resistance

Extremely drought-tolerant--Heat tolerant--deer resistance

Sun Exposure

Full sun (6+ hrs.)-- Partial shade (3–6 hrs. sun)

Watering Needs

Low
Bloom Season Late summer
Botanical Name Mammillaria plumosa
Common Name Feather cactus
Dormancy Winter
Family Cactaceae
Flower Color Creamy white, greenish yellow, dull pink
Genus Mammillaria
Growth Habit Globular stem
Growth Rate Slow
Hardiness Zone 9, 10, 11
Mature Size 6 in. tall, 16 in. wide
Native Area Northeastern Mexico
Plant Type Flowering plant, Cactus
Propagation By cuttings, offsets
Resistance Extremely drought-tolerant, Heat tolerant, deer resistance
Soil PH 6.5, Acidic, Neutral
Soil Type Cactus potting mix soil
Special Features Soft, fluffy, evergreen plant
Sun Exposure Full sun (6+ hrs.), Partial shade (3–6 hrs. sun)
Toxicity Friendly to humans, friendly to dogs, friendly to cats
Watering Needs Low

Growers Quick Reference Guide - Key Features

Bloom Season Late summer
Botanical Name Mammillaria plumosa
Common Name Feather cactus
Dormancy Winter
Family Cactaceae
Flower Color Creamy white, greenish yellow, dull pink
Genus Mammillaria
Growth Habit Globular stem
Growth Rate Slow
Hardiness Zone 9, 10, 11
Mature Size 6 in. tall, 16 in. wide
Native Area Northeastern Mexico
Plant Type Flowering plant, Cactus
Propagation By cuttings, offsets
Resistance Extremely drought-tolerant, Heat tolerant, deer resistance
Soil PH 6.5, Acidic, Neutral
Soil Type Cactus potting mix soil
Special Features Soft, fluffy, evergreen plant
Sun Exposure Full sun (6+ hrs.), Partial shade (3–6 hrs. sun)
Toxicity Friendly to humans, friendly to dogs, friendly to cats
Watering Needs Low

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