Mammillaria Gracilis Oruga (Thimble Cactus)

Mammillaria gracilis var. fragilis ‘Oruga’
Common Name: Thimble Cactus

Mammillaria gracilis ‘Oruga’, also known as the Thimble Cactus, is a charming miniature cactus that wins hearts with its petite size, snowy white spines, and its ability to cluster like no other. Native to central Mexico, this variety quickly forms dense mats of finger-sized stems, each resembling a tiny thimble covered in delicate lace.

The cultivar name ‘Oruga’ (Spanish for “caterpillar”) reflects its tendency to sprawl or trail slightly when grown in hanging containers or crowded pots. It produces small, creamy yellow flowers near the tips of its stems—adorable bursts of color amid its frosty-white covering.

☀ Light Requirements
Thrives in bright, indirect light or gentle morning sun. Avoid intense, direct afternoon rays, which can scorch the delicate spines. Indoors, a well-lit windowsill works beautifully.

💧 Watering Needs
Water sparingly and only when the soil is fully dry. Like all Mammillarias, this variety is very drought-tolerant. Cut back significantly during the winter dormancy period.

🌡 Temperature Tolerance
Tolerates temps down to around 25–30°F in dry conditions. Avoid frost and soggy soil. Add a [Heat Pack] if shipping during cold months.

✨ Special Features
• Miniature Growth – Perfect for windowsills, fairy gardens, or tiny pots
• Snowy White Spines – Creates a soft, frosty appearance
• Fast Clumper – Quickly multiplies into a beautiful colony of “thimbles”

Other Common Names:
Thimble Cactus, Snowball Cactus, Oruga Cactus

This cactus will ship bare root and will be ready to place directly in a well draining soil mix like our Custom Cactus Mix.

Photos in the listings unless otherwise specified are representative of the plant that will be sent to you.
However, Plants grow differently and each plant may vary slightly in shape, size, growth pattern, etc.
Of course, if you receive a plant that you are dissatisfied with please reach out to us. We want to make it right!

If temperatures near you are below 45℉ we highly recommend adding a Heat Pack to your order.
If temperatures where you live will be much lower than 20℉ even heat packs may not work. You may consider waiting until things warm up a bit. We know you love your plants just like we do and we wouldn't want any of them to freeze.