Photo: Dornenwolf, Wikipedia
Mammillaria
Feather Cactus
Mammillaria plumosa
A small clustering cactus covered in soft white feather-like spines that conceal the green stems beneath.
Plant profile updated August 25, 2026
QUICK FACTS
Key growing and identification information for Mammillaria plumosa.
IDENTIFICATION
Look for these characteristics when identifying Mammillaria plumosa.
HOW TO GROW FEATHER CACTUS
Use these growing guidelines as a practical starting point and adjust for local conditions.
Light
Provide bright light with several hours of direct sun introduced gradually.
Water
Water only after the soil is completely dry and keep almost dry in winter.
Soil
Use a highly mineral cactus mix that drains rapidly.
Temperature and Placement
Keep the feather-like spines dry and protect the plant from hard frost.
PROPAGATION BY OFFSETS
Feather Cactus can be propagated from offsets or seed.
- Select healthy plant material.
- Use a sterile blade and allow any cut surface to callus.
- Place it in dry, fast-draining soil.
- Wait several days before watering lightly.
- Keep it warm and in bright filtered light while roots establish.
SCIENTIFIC CLASSIFICATION
The botanical classification currently used for this plant profile.
| Kingdom | Plantae |
|---|---|
| Clade | Tracheophytes |
| Clade | Angiosperms |
| Order | Caryophyllales |
| Family | Cactaceae |
| Genus | Mammillaria |
| Species | Mammillaria plumosa |
Safety: Generally considered non-toxic. Avoid ingesting unfamiliar plants and use appropriate protection when handling sharp or irritating species.
