Mammillaria eriacantha, commonly known as Pincushion Cactus, is an evergreen succulent native to the arid and semi-arid regions of Eastern Mexico. It is a small cactus, typically growing to heights and widths of approximately 1 foot (0.3 meters). The Pincushion Cactus has a globular to cylindrical shape with dense white spines that provide a striking contrast to its green body. It produces vibrant yellow flowers in the spring and summer, which are quite showy and add ornamental value. The flowers are followed by red fruits that are also visually appealing.

The Pincushion Cactus is valued for its low maintenance requirements and its ability to thrive in hot, dry environments, making it an excellent choice for rock gardens, desert landscaping, and as a houseplant. It is well-suited to container growing, which allows for easy movement indoors during colder months in non-native regions. Gardeners should provide full sun and ensure the soil has excellent drainage to prevent root rot. Overwatering is a common issue with cacti, so it is crucial to let the soil dry out between waterings. While it is generally pest-resistant, mealybugs and scale insects can sometimes be a problem.CC BY-SA 4.0