This prickly plant is a unique and popular and it’s known for its wide variety of species, each very distinct in appearance. Cactus have many different shapes. They are found around the world. There are about 2,000 different kinds of cacti. They thrive in dry, hot climates. Unlike most plants, cactus need very minimal amounts of water, thriving in well-drained areas. They store what water they do get, allowing them to survive droughts. All cacti are succulents but not all succulents are cacti. Cacti have structures called areolas, small cushioned shapes that grow spines, branches or hair, that define their family. Many succulents don’t have areolas and so are classified in a different plant family.
While Cacti are commonly thought of as desert plants, they can thrive in a home environment too. So having trouble picking out your perfect plant, I have listed a few cacti plants that I adore and that you can find at any local garden shop! To help you decide on which plant is the best fit, look at each one’s appearance, water intake and sunlight needs.
Bunny ears cactus is named after its appearance. It has two pads that are bunny ear shaped. They are covered with glochids or brown prickles and should be handled with care. The bunny ears cactus grows to two or three feet, making it the perfect house plant. It produces white flowers and purple fruits in the summer if exposed to enough light. (water every 3-4 weeks & indirect sunlight)
Popularly known as the chin cactus, the gymnocalycium is a South American species of cactus. Its name means “naked kalyx” in Greek which refers to the lack of hair or spines on the flower buds. Depending on the variety, some chin cacti seek shade while others thrive in sunlight. (water once a week & partial sunlight)
Saguaro cactus can grow to forty feet, but it grows slowly. This means it can be used as an indoor plant for years before you need to move it outdoors. It has a barrel-shaped body, giving it the classic cactus appearance. Native to the Sonoran Desert, this plant requires a lot of light. If kept as an indoor plant, be sure to place it in direct sunlight. (water once a month & direct sunlight)
The Christmas cactus blooms in late winter. It has vibrant red flowers and is a common holiday gift. The Christmas cactus does well indoors, in moderate home conditions. Avoid watering too much because this will cause the roots to rot. This plant can adapt to low light environments, but blooms excel with more light. (water every 3-4 weeks & indirect sunlight)
The moon cactus varies in size, shape and color. A popular variety is the hibotan cactus. It originated in South America and comes in bright reds, pinks, yellows and oranges. These small plants thrive on windowsills that get partial light. (water every 3-4 weeks & partial light)
Cacti are a unique addition to any home or garden. Whether you decide to plant an outdoor cactus in your backyard or add a cactus and succulent arrangement to your windowsill, they are low maintenance plants that are easy to care for. Check out Flymeawaycreations Etsy shop to find several planters for that perfect cactus plant!
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