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Fishhook Cactus

Mammillaria dioica

In stock

1 gallon

Plant Care

Native region:

Local Native

Water needs:

Low

Exposure:

Mature size:

Growth rate:

Full Sun; Filtered Sun

4"x6"

Slow

Flower color:

Flower season:

Pruning:

White; Yellow

Winter; Spring

None

Wildlife

Monarchs:

Nectar pollinators:

Nighttime pollinators:

Rabbit resistant:

Mammillaria dioica, commonly known as Strawberry Cactus, California Fishhook Cactus, Strawberry Pincushion, or Fishhook Cactus, is a species of the Mammillaria genus native to California and northwestern Mexico, including Baja California and Sonora. One of the smallest cacti in California, it can appear as a single stem or in clumps of multiple stems. Large specimens may reach up to six inches tall, though they are typically smaller. In desert regions, it often grows in rocky areas, sometimes emerging from crevices in granite boulders at the edges of desert canyons. Despite their size, the flowers are small yet showy.

Growing Plants in the Desert — Important Information

The information presented here is, to the best of my knowledge, accurate and based on my research from reliable sources, observations I have made of plants growing in my, and other gardens I have visited, and observations of the plants in their native habitats. I would appreciate your feedback and experience to help me educate others!

Cacti: In my experience, cacti are much happier in the filtered shade here in the low desert of the Coachella Valley. Colors are more vibrant and they bloom more profusely, especially the non-native varieties. If you pay attention to how our native barrel and beavertail opuntia grow in the wild, it is frequently tucked in the rocks under creosote or another shrub.

Light Requirements: I have found that in our desert (Sonoran/Colorado) “full sun” plants can take and appreciate the late afternoon filtered sun, especially in the hot summer months.