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  In 1812, the cactus specialist Adrian Haworth described the genus Mammillaria to contain this and related species. Numerous species are commonly known as nipple cactus, fishhook cactus or pincushion though such terms may also be used for related taxa such as Escobaria. Mammillaria species can be grown as pot plants and make interesting features on a sunny veranda or windowsill. They also make an attractive addition to a rockery or water-wise garden.
 The variation in spines is a novel selling feature and often, these plants fit the stereotypical expectations that most people have for a cactus plant, although some species are only going to be found among highly-dedicated cactus growers. The popularity of this genus has led to a good deal of study and consequent literature on both growing and identifying Mammillaria species.
Mammillaria matudae is native to Michoacán and Guerrero in Mexico. The name matudae honours botonist Eizi Matuda. Some synonyms are Mammillaria matudae duocentralis, Mammillaria matudae var. serpentiformis and Mammillaria compacticaulis. It was first described by Helia Bravo Hollis in 1956. The plants have cylindrical stems growing up to 20 cm high and 3 cm in diameter. The older the plant gets, the stems tend to lean over and start to sprawl. Clumps form at the base of these stems. There are 18 to 20 short radial spines of 3 mm long, and one central spine of 5mm long. The small reddish purple flowers are funnel shaped and are followed by red and green fruits.
  
  
  
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