How did this ever get confused with Mammillaria?? I guess some of those taxonomists just see mammaries everywhere. The flowers are very large, and brilliant red occuring in a halo shape at the tips. Native to southern California where it cascades over cliffs. Easy to grow, very drought tolerant. Flowers are ridiculous showy. Recurved hooked spines are intimidating but very decorative. Tall plants 7-10" tall in 4" pots, shipped bare root.