Pack Size: 20, 100, 300
Year: 2026
Accepted Scientific Name: Mammillaria bocasana Poselg.
Horticultural Selection: Mammillaria bocasana 'Crema' (supplier designation; formal cultivar status unverified)
Origin and Habitat:
Mammillaria bocasana is native to central Mexico, particularly San Luis Potosí, where it inhabits rocky mountainous slopes, open grasslands, and dry scrublands. Plants grow in shallow, well-drained soils among rocks and sparse vegetation, often receiving partial shade during the hottest parts of the day. The natural environment experiences warm summers, cool winters, and seasonal rainfall. The crema selection is known through horticultural trade and is associated with pale, creamy floral colouring rather than a separately documented natural population.
Description:
Mammillaria bocasana var. crema is a compact Powder Puff Cactus selection forming rounded to short cylindrical stems approximately 2–5" tall and 2–3" in diameter. The green body is densely covered with silky white hairs and slender radial spines, accompanied by longer central spines that may be yellowish or reddish-brown. Mature plants gradually produce numerous offsets, forming attractive clusters. Small creamy-white to pale yellowish flowers may develop around the crown during spring, followed by elongated reddish fruits. Seed-grown plants may vary in flower colour and spine characteristics.
Cultivation:
Zone: 9–11; protect from frost.
Temperature: Optimal growth at 18–28 °C. Maintain winter temperatures above 5 °C.
Growth Rate: Moderate, gradually forming offsets and clusters.
Soil: A fast-draining cactus mixture containing pumice, fine gravel, and moderate organic matter.
Watering: Water during active growth, allowing the medium to dry between waterings. Keep mostly dry in winter.
Fertilizing: Apply diluted cactus fertilizer every 2–3 weeks during active growth.
Light: Bright filtered sunlight to gentle morning sun.
Pests and Diseases: Mealybugs, spider mites, scale insects, and root rot.
Germination Info:
Temperature: 27 °C.
Surface Sown: Yes. Press seeds lightly onto a fine growing medium.
Germination Time: Approximately 7–28 days.
Moisture: Maintain consistent moisture without saturation.
Light: Bright, indirect light.
After Germination: Gradually increase ventilation and maintain moderate moisture while roots establish.
