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Thimble Cactus

Thimble Cactus (Mammillaria fragilis) is a small clump-forming cactus that is native to Central Mexico. In our area it is grown as a house plant as our cold winter temperatures will kill it. It could be placed outdoors during summer but must be moved indoors prior to first frost. It is an ideal house plant as it is low water so will thrive on neglect. Just place in a warm room with bright light for best growth. Thimble Cacti are best grown in a well-drained soil.

Individual stems or cacti in a clump may be up to 1 inch in thickness. Clumps may reach 12” in diameter or greater and consist of multiple individuals. Thimble Cacti are easily propagated by separating individuals from the clump and repotting.

At Trees That Please Nursery greenhouse our Thimble Cacti bloom in late summer or early fall with small pale yellow flowers. Thimble Cacti are quite showy when they have grown to full a small pot. The bright white spine against the green stems contrast well.

 
Trees That Please Nursery propagates Thimble Cacti as part of our house plant collection.
 
Photos & Narrative By:
Stephen Sain
Staff Plant Physiologist

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