Mammillaria spinosissima Un Pico - Cactus

Mammillaria spinosissima 'Un Pico' is a small globular to columnar cactus with fairly rapid growth, prized for its compact habit and fine, dense white thorns, which form a regular pattern on its body, as it features only one central thorn per areole—hence its name 'Un Pico', meaning "a single spike". At maturity, it produces a crown of pink to violet flowers, which beautifully contrast with its dark green epidermis.

Mammillaria 'Un Pico' belongs to the Cactaceae family and naturally grows in the arid, rocky regions of Mexico, where it adapts to poor, dry soils. It is a stable genetic mutation of a highly variable species, Mammillaria spinosissima, in which each areole produces only one thorn, though some areoles are completely thornless. This globular cactus typically does not exceed 30 cm in height and 10 cm in diameter, with an initially globular then columnar habit and fairly rapid growth. Its body is composed of cylindrical tubercles, a characteristic of the Mammillaria genus, and its fine, white radial thorns give it a slightly tousled appearance. One of its main attractions is its spring flowering, which manifests as a crown of small pinkish-purple flowers arranged in a circle around the top of the cactus.

With its compact habit, Mammillaria 'Un Pico' is ideal for pot cultivation, in a bright living room, conservatory, or greenhouse. It is often grown alone in a small terracotta pot, which promotes good drainage and highlights its neat appearance. It pairs well with other miniature cacti, such as Echinopsis chamaecereus or Rebutia heliosa, to create a harmonious composition. Its combination with low-growing succulents, like Lithops or Echeveria minima, enhances its sculptural appeal.