The Mammallaria Pops

The genus Mammillaria is one of the largest of the cactus family. They are typically globular and are commonly found in small pots, especially in non-native areas.

Some have small flowers. A few species have showy flowers which stand on long floral tubes above the plant, like this species.  Looks like a twin pair will bloom soon.

The flower was on the opposite side of the grizzly cactus, which is quite an appropriate name for it. As I tried to shoot over it I got a bit too close causing my shin to take twelve hairlike spines.  My mistake: using my fingers to remove them.  Some broke off at the base - so ouchie when digging them out!  May I suggest a peek in expanded view?

I got a new lens with which I took this photo.  It's a Canon EF 24-105mm f/4L IS.  So far, so good.