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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 nivosa or Woolly Nipple Cactus as it is more commonly known is native to the Caribbean, and is less tolerant of cold weather than most cacti. They will need protection from temperatures lower than 5°C. It is important to keep them dry during cold weather or they can easily rot. They can be solitary plants or they can form large clusters. The individual stems dark green to bronze and are globose or short cylindrical in shape. There are 6 to 13 radial spines up to 20 mm long and yellow to dark brown in colour and usually 1 similar looking central spine. The flowers are yellow and followed by red fruits.
  
  
  
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