Generally solitary cactus (sometimes branching) with stems to 20 inches tall and about 2.5 inches in diameter. 12-15 straight central spines (variable), 20-25 radial spines, sometimes with wool and bristles in the axils. Purplish pink flowers, green to pinkish fruit.

Found in central Mexico in the states of Morelos, Guerrero, and Mexico. 3 subspecies are currently recognized. The type, Biznaga de Espinas Plumosas (Mammillaria spinosissima subsp. spinosissima), which is the most widespread, with whitish spines and usually without bristles, is usually limited to about 12 inches. Bristle Brush (Mammillaria spinosissima subsp. pilcayensis) has bristles and whitish spines, growing narrower stems up to 20 inches. Biznaga de Tlayacapan (Mammillaria spinosissima subsp. tepoxtlana) has yellow spines and is found near Tepoztlán.

Various versions of this plant are found in cultivation, including the cultivar Mammillaria (Mammillaria spinosissima 'Un Pico'), which does not really resemble the usual species, having one spine per areole (sometimes reverting to multiples).

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