Family: Cactaceae
Author: Muehlenpf.
Bibliography: Allg. Gartenzeitung 16: 20 (1848)
Year: 1848
Status: accepted
Rank: species
Genus: Mammillaria
Vegetable: False
Observations: SE. Arizona to SW. Oklahoma and N. Mexico
Description
The Ball Cactus, scientifically known as Mammillaria heyderi, is a fascinating and visually striking member of the family Cactaceae. This intriguing species was first described by Muehlenpf. in 1848, as noted in the publication Allg. Gartenzeitung (General Gardening Newspaper), volume 16, page 20.
Native to the arid and semi-arid regions, the Ball Cactus can be found across a range stretching from southeastern Arizona, sweeping through southwestern Oklahoma, and extending into northern Mexico. The plant’s natural habitat includes desert landscapes and rocky outcrops where it has adapted remarkably well to harsh environmental conditions.
Characterized by its spherical or slightly elongated shape, the Ball Cactus typically forms solitary or small clumping structures. Its surface is covered with numerous spines protruding from small, tubercle-like structures, which help to protect it from herbivores and provide some shade that reduces water loss. The cactus exhibits significant variations in spine color and length, contributing to its unique appearance.
During its blooming period, Mammillaria heyderi produces charming, petite flowers that range in color from white to pink. These blossoms often form a ring around the top of the cactus, creating an attractive display that entices pollinators such as bees and other insects. Following the flowering phase, the cactus produces small, red to pink fruits that contain seeds, ensuring the plant’s continued propagation in its native environment.
The Ball Cactus is not only admired for its resilience and beauty but also holds interest for cacti enthusiasts and botanists alike. Its ability to thrive in extreme conditions makes it a subject of study for those interested in desert flora and adaptive survival strategies.
In cultivation, the Ball Cactus is favored by those looking to add a distinctive touch to their cactus collection. It requires well-draining soil and minimal water, reflecting its natural arid habitat. With proper care and a suitable environment, this hardy cactus can be a long-lived and captivating addition to any garden or indoor plant display.
Overall, Mammillaria heyderi, or the Ball Cactus, stands as a remarkable testament to the beauty and adaptability of desert-dwelling plants. Its unique form, vibrant flowers, and native resilience continue to captivate plant lovers and researchers around the world.
Common Names
Spa: biznaga china
Eng: heyder’s nipple cactus, heyder’s pincushion, heyder’s pincushion cactus, ball cactus, cream cactus, cream pincushion, flat cream pincushion, little nipple cactus, nipple cactus, pancake pincushion, small-spine cream pincushion
Por: cactus
Swe: plattvårtkaktus
En: Ball cactus, Pancake pincushion, Cream cactus, Cream pincushion, Heyder’s nipple cactus, Heyder’s pincushion, Small-spine cream pincushion, Flat cream pincushion, Little nipple cactus, Nipple cactus, Cream pincushion cactus, Heyder’s Pincushion Cactus
Pt: Cactus
Es: Biznaga China
Sv: Plattvårtkaktus
: Little nipple trefle
Synonyms
- Neomammillaria heyderi ((Muehlenpf.) Britton & Rose)
- Cactus heyderi ((Muehlenpf.) Kuntze)
Distribution
- Arizona (native)
- Mexico Gulf (native)
- Mexico Northeast (native)
- Mexico Northwest (native)
- Mexico Southeast (native)
- New Mexico (native)
- Oklahoma (native)
- Texas (native)
Additional Images
Leaf
Taken Feb 5, 2022 by Rubio Jimmy (cc-by-sa)
Taken Jun 1, 2022 by Rita Schiel (cc-by-sa)
Taken Jan 9, 2022 by eris tesoro (cc-by-sa)
Taken Mar 25, 2021 by Fierro Alejandro (cc-by-sa)
Taken Mar 25, 2021 by Fierro Alejandro (cc-by-sa)
Bark
Taken Mar 20, 2022 by Martin Bishop (cc-by-sa)
Fruit
Taken Feb 5, 2022 by Rubio Jimmy (cc-by-sa)
Taken Apr 9, 2022 by Pineda Yarení (cc-by-sa)
Taken Apr 9, 2020 by Anna Iwańczuk (cc-by-sa)
Taken Mar 22, 2021 by ker aggker (cc-by-sa)
Taken Oct 3, 2021 by Gianni Del Bufalo (cc-by-sa)
Habit
Taken Oct 3, 2021 by Gianni Del Bufalo (cc-by-sa)
Taken Oct 3, 2021 by Gianni Del Bufalo (cc-by-sa)
Flower
Taken Feb 5, 2022 by Rubio Jimmy (cc-by-sa)
Sources
- WFO (No URL)
- GBIF (https://www.gbif.org/species/5384021)
- POWO (http://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:134685-1)
- PlantNet (https://identify.plantnet.org/species/the-plant-list/Mammillaria heyderi Muehlenpf.)
Specifications
Growth habit>: Shrub