Mammillaria prolifera aka Little Candles

Mammillaria prolifera is a small cactus in the Cactaceae family. Its common names include little candles and silver cluster cactus. Gardeners also call it strawberry cactus. Sources differ on where it grows in the wild. Kew lists Haiti, while RHS gives Cuba to Hispaniola. LLIFLE's account of the species adds Mexico and Texas. Across that wider range, it grows in scrub and grassland. It also grows in dry thickets. Kew places it in a tropical climate with dry seasons.

The plant forms a low clump of round stems. Short spines cover them, with shades from white to red-brown. RHS lists a height of about 0.33 feet [0.1 metres]. Garden clumps spread about 0.33–1.64 feet [0.1–0.5 metres]. LLIFLE reports larger clumps about 1.97 feet [0.6 metres] across. RHS says it takes five to ten years to mature. The clump stays green all year, giving it lasting appeal. It stays low as it grows wider.

The flowers bring soft colour among the short spines. Each bloom spans about 0.066 feet [0.02 metres]. They have a cream-yellow base with a pink flush. The outer flower parts have brown stripes. LLIFLE's photos of the species show bright red fruits. These hold seeds and add stronger colour than the pale blooms. The supplied evidence does not show whether people can eat them. It gives no clear account of toxicity for people or pets.

RHS says to grow it under glass in standard cactus compost. Give it bright, filtered light and air with low humidity. Its site guide also lists full sun and a sheltered spot. Loam or sand can suit it if water drains well. It accepts acid, neutral, and alkaline soil. Give modest amounts of water while the plant grows. Then keep it almost dry through winter. While it grows, use balanced liquid feed every two to three weeks. RHS rates it H2: it can take cool air, but not freezing.

RHS suggests it for pots and patio displays. A greenhouse or conservatory gives the shelter its hardiness rating calls for. It needs no routine pruning, and RHS reports few disease problems. Mealybugs can still attack the plant. Growers can raise new plants from seed or offsets. Sow seed in early spring at 19–24°C.