This small cactus has small cylinders that are green and surrounded by white spines. Because the needles are perpendicular to the plant, you do not have to worry about this plant hurting you. In cooler months, the plant will produce small white and creamy flowers. The small globe clusters are densely covered with the radial spines, giving the impression of a white “thimble”. The clusters grow to form large mats over time.
Growing Thimble Cactus
This plant is winter hardy only in zones 9 - 11. You should also provide winter protection from frost to prevent the plant from scarring. You can grow these cactus indoors if given at least 5 hours of sunlight. This is a great plant for beginners, as it does not require much care or attention besides ensuring there is enough sunlight. You can also grow this plant outdoors in the warmer months, and bring it back inside before the first frost. During the winter it prefers to have very little water. These do requires porous cactus soil wherever you choose to grow it.
Thimble Cactus Plant Facts
USDA Hardiness Zones: 9-11 |
Foliage Color(s): Green, White, Cream |
Exposure: Full Sun |
Height: 5-6 Inches |
Spread: 2-6 Inches |
Soil Type: Porous, Rocky, Sandy |
Habit: Compact |
Watering: Dry |
Drought Tolerant: Yes |
Uses: Indoor/Outdoor |
Other Uses: Rock & Container Gardens |
Type: Succulent/Annual |
Scientific Name: Mammillaria gracilis fragilis |
Common Name: Thimble Cactus |
Other Name(s): Cactus Succulent |
- SKU:
- MAMFRP
Container Sizes
Please Note: The pictures below are to give a general representation of the different container sizes. The actual size/ages of plants are estimates and will vary based on; type of plant, time of year, last pruning & many other factors.
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Planter Shipping
Standard Colors: 2-3 business days
Special Order Colors: 8 weeks - this is due to the planter being custom made with the color(s) of your choice
Please Note: On special orders there can not be any cancellations
Plant Shipping
Time of Order:
Summer Shipping
- If there is extreme heat we’ll delay shipping.
- We’ll have to review what areas the plants are traveling through along with your location
Once your plant is shipped you’ll receive an email with tracking information. Depending on the above criteria we’ll ship your plant(s) towards beginning of the following week from your order. We put together this helpful guide of what to do when you receive your plants in the mail.
It is important to know that all of our plants are clearly labeled for which growing zones the plant can survive in. The plants are thoroughly trialed and tested in every growing zone before we state the plant can grow in a zone. Again, our #1 priority is to ship the plants to you healthy and ready to thrive in your location. So we will do everything in our power to do so.