Mammillaria spinosissima

Native to Mexico from Durango south to Morelos and Guerrero, this succulent cactus grows in dry shrubland habitats. It usually develops a solitary, elongated stem reaching about eight inches tall. Prominent conical tubercles bear numerous whitish, yellowish, or brownish spines, with white wool and bristles between them. Purplish-pink flowers, about half an inch across, open near the top of the stem and are followed by purplish fruits. It can be propagated from seed or offsets. Photographed in Peru.