Mammillaria heyderi aka Ball Cactus
Taxonomy ID: 10709
Common names
Ball Cactus, Pancake Pincushion, Cream CactusMore information about Ball Cactus
How difficult is it to take care of Ball Cactus
Ball Cactus is a low-maintenance plant that requires minimal attention, making it an excellent choice for beginners.
What is the region of origin of Ball Cactus
Ball Cactus’s native range is the Southwestern United States, Central America, and the Caribbean.
What are the water needs for Ball Cactus
Ball Cactus does best in dry soil and should only be watered sparingly.
What is the right soil for Ball Cactus
When it comes to the Ball Cactus, a potting soil that is too moist can cause problems. For this reason, it's important to use a soil mix that is well-draining and does not retain too much moisture. A soil that includes perlite or vermiculite for drainage and organic matter for nutrition is ideal. You can achieve this by simply adding a few scoops of perlite to your store-bought cactus soil.
What is the sunlight requirement for Ball Cactus
Ball Cactus requires abundant, bright and direct light. Placing it less than one foot from a window is the best way to make sure the plant receives enough light to survive and thrive. Depending on your region, however, the current weather can affect the placement of the plant in your home. For example, in some areas the sun may be too direct and intense, so it's best to place it farther away from the window. You may also need to adjust your placement according to the season as the sunlight can change intensity over the course of the year. If you live in a region with significant temperature fluctuations, such as a desert, you may need to place the plant a bit farther away from the window to avoid extreme heat or cold. With some care and attention, your Ball Cactus will be sure to bring you many years of beauty and enjoyment.
What's the right humidity for Ball Cactus
Ball Cactus enjoys dry environments, but misting the plant or providing extra humidity can create an environment for harmful fungi to thrive on the leaves.
How to fertilize Ball Cactus
The growth of Ball Cactus is not rapid and it doesn't necessitate any extra fertilization. By replacing its potting soil once a year, it should receive ample nutrition. It is important to note that plants obtain their energy from the sun's rays, not from fertilizers.

Is Ball Cactus toxic to humans/pets?
Ball Cactus is not known to cause harm to humans or pets.
What's the dormancy for Ball Cactus
During the cold period, it is common for Ball Cactus to go dormant and their growth may slow down, so waterings should be spaced out more during this period.
What is the growth pattern of Ball Cactus
New growth will sprout from the top of the plant as it grows upwards.
Is Ball Cactus flowering?
If you provide your Ball Cactus with adequate amounts of sunlight and water, it will bloom.
More info:
Wikipedia
More Species in Mammillaria Genus

Mammillaria muehlenpfordtii Mammillaria Celsiana
Mammillaria armillata Mammillaria Armillata

Mammillaria compressa Mother Of Hundreds

Mammillaria rhodantha Rainbow Pincushion
Mammillaria formosa chionocephala Mammillaria Riteriana
Mammillaria jaliscana Mammillaria Jaliscana
Mammillaria schiedeana giselae Mammillaria

Mammillaria uncinata

Mammillaria nivosa Cactus
