Source: Wikimedia Commons
Feather cactus
IntermediateMammillaria plumosa
A Mammillaria covered in soft, finely branched white spines like feathers. The spines are so soft it is one of the friendliest cacti to touch.
About
Mammillaria plumosa is a cactus from Coahuila and Nuevo León in north-eastern Mexico at 730-1,350 m, growing on limestone cliffs in sparse dry scrub. Continued illegal collecting for the ornamental trade, and local collecting to decorate Christmas nativity scenes, are causing declines. Stems are depressed-globular to slightly elongated, 4-7 cm tall and wide, light green but appearing white under the dense spines. Each areole bears about 40 soft white radial spines 1-7 mm long, lined with fine hairs along the axis like a bird's feather, so the whole plant looks wrapped in down. There are no central spines. It offsets into low mounds up to 40 cm wide. The small flowers are whitish-yellow and sweetly scented. Its soft spines, harmless to touch, make it very popular; in Japan it is a standard white Mammillaria at garden centres and specialists, and offsetting monstrose forms are also sold.
Size of the Feather cactus
The Feather cactus grows to Stems 4-7 cm tall and wide; mounds up to 40 cm across.
Basic Info
Origin
North-eastern Mexico (Coahuila, Nuevo León; 730-1,350 m)
Lifespan
Perennial (little published data on lifespan)
Size
Stems 4-7 cm tall and wide; mounds up to 40 cm across
Temperature
5〜35℃
Humidity
30〜50%
Watering & Fertilizer
A little fertiliser in the summer growing season
Growing Tips
Light & Placement
In summer give full sun or light shade. Keeping it out of the rain keeps the white spines clean.
Watering
Cacti are grown much like summer-growing succulents. Water regularly in summer, pouring onto the soil so the spines stay dry and clean. Do not let the soil get too dry in winter either.
Temperature & Overwintering
Winter it in a bright, frost-free spot, and do not let the soil stay cold and wet for long.
Soil & Repotting
It is rot-prone, so use a well-drained mix; roots are easily lost in pots that stay damp.
Propagation
It takes a few years to start offsetting but can then fill a 25 cm pot within a few years. Offsets root quickly as cuttings; it can also be grown from seed.
Pests & Cautions
It is prone to root rot and easily loses its roots in pots that stay damp, so be especially careful with overwatering. Water on the spines leaves them looking dingy.
Feather cactus FAQ
QWhat is the growing difficulty level for Feather cactus?
Intermediate. A variety suitable for intermediate growers. Requires some cultivation experience and knowledge of environment management. Pay careful attention to temperature and humidity control.
QHow large does Feather cactus get?
The mature size of Feather cactus is Stems 4-7 cm tall and wide; mounds up to 40 cm across. This may vary slightly depending on cultivation environment and individual differences.
QHow should I water and fertilize Feather cactus?
Feather cactus: watering & fertilizer — A little fertiliser in the summer growing season. Aim for appropriate frequency and amount.
QWhat is the typical price for Feather cactus?
The price of Feather cactus varies significantly by variety, characteristics, size, and lineage. Please check GrowerDirect's price guide for the latest market information.
Last updated: September 23, 2026
References & Sources
Edited & verified by: GrowerDirect Editorial Team
The classifications, regulations, and growing data on this page are created and verified based on the primary information database below.
Taxonomy & Authority
Accepted name: Mammillaria plumosa F.A.C.Weber
Synonyms: Chilita plumosa (F.A.C.Weber) Orcutt, Ebnerella plumosa (F.A.C.Weber) Buxb., Neomammillaria plumosa (F.A.C.Weber) Britton & Rose
Authority databases: GBIF · GBIF: Mammillaria plumosa
Nomenclature follows global taxonomic authority databases.
Regulations & Conservation Status
Listed in CITES Appendix II as part of Cactaceae spp. International trade requires permits; no registration is needed for transfers within Japan.
Sources: Species+ (CITES): Mammillaria plumosa
Regulations may change. Always verify the latest information with the relevant authorities.
Related Species
Find listings for this species
Related Articles
Complete Guide to Growing Mammillaria | Enjoying the Charm of Small Cacti Through Multi-headed Plants
This guide explains how to grow Mammillaria, a small cactus that readily clusters. It covers soil, watering, spring blooming in flower-ring formations, and propagation using offsets—introducing in detail how to enjoy growing multi-headed plants.
Autumn Preparation Management for Summer-Type Succulents
A guide to autumn care for summer-type succulents, covering plant changes from September to November, timing for gradual watering reduction, placement and temperature management for transitioning plants indoors, autumn fertilizing and pest control, variety-specific care checkpoints, and preparation for winter dormancy.
Mealybug Control on Succulents | Complete Guide to Early Detection, Removal, and Prevention
Mealybugs hide easily at the base of succulent leaves and on new growth. This guide covers their characteristics, the environments where they thrive, tips for early detection, removal methods using cotton swabs and alcohol, and daily care practices to prevent recurrence.
Summer and Winter Type Succulents: Growth Cycles and Watering Management Strategy
This article explains the differences in growth types of succulent plants, their annual growth cycles, seasonal watering management strategies, common failures, and countermeasures.
🩺 Common diseases
Can't find the plant you're looking for?
Post your wishes for free and growers with matching plants will contact you with introductions.