NIPPLE CACTUS, Pincushion cactus, Biznaga de chilitos, Little Chile 

Mammillaria heyderi - Cactaceae, Cactus Family

DESCRIPTION: Globose or round-shaped, dark green or bluish-green, central 
spines all straight. 

Height: To 2-1/2 inches tall and 
5 inches across. 

Flowers: Small, 1-1/2 inches wide, white, brownish, pinkish, or pale purple. February through April. Form crown like circle around top 
of cactus.

Fruit: Small, red, club-shaped 

Growth rate: Slow

REQUIREMENTS:

Sun: Partial sun, prefers shade.

Soil: Any, but commonly found 
in clay soils

Drainage: Good 

Water: Do not over water 

Maintenance: Best if left alone

Propagation: Seeds

NATIVE HABITAT: Found throughout the Lower 
Rio Grande Valley in the shade 
of brush.

WILDLIFE USE: Flowers provide nectar and pollen for insects. Fruit is eaten by birds, small mammals and Texas tortoises. 

COMMENTS: Showy flowers followed by a bright red ring of fruit.