Cacti are a type of succulent plants known their ability to survive in hot and dry conditions. They have unique and interesting shapes that makes gardeners and plant enthusiasts to love them. Holiday cacti in particular produces colcorful blooms around the winter holidays.
It is relatively easy to care for a cactus plant, but there are a few conditions you have to meet for them to thrive including:
Under right care, cacti are long-lived and low-maintenance plants that can add a unique touch to any indoor or outdoor space.
Below are a collection of posts exploring on care requirements for various cacti plants.
The Brain Cactus (Mammillaria elongata Cristata) is a unique plant that looks like a human brain or a clump of worms. The crested shape is as a result of mutation that causes its stems to grow in a fan-like shape. It’s a visually striking plant perfect for bonsai or Halloween decorations. Originating from Mexico, this…
The spiral aloe (Aloe polyphylla) is a beautiful and rare succulent currently facing extinction. It’s a highly sought-after evergreen plant known for its spiral growth habit. With its enchanting compact rosette, this aloe has become the dream of every houseplant lover. Besides being ornamental, Spiral aloe is commonly used for ‘muthi’ (traditional medicine in Southern…
Cacti are commonly defined by clusters of spines on their stems. While this gives them a unique appearance, it raises questions regarding their potential toxicity. In this guide, I’ll explain whether cactus spines are poisonous or not and what to do if they prick your skin. Spines are actually modified leaves or specialized structures that…
Trailing cactus plants can add beauty and color to any space. They can be grown in hanging baskets on a patio, porch, or balcony. I enjoy it when they are suspended indoors on a ceiling beam or window frame. However, there are just a few hanging cacti you can choose for this arrangement. Popular trailing…
Cacti are known to survive in deserts where conditions are hot and dry. However, there are also species that are well-adapted to cold weather and can withstand frost without damage. These plants remain upbeat even when temperatures fall to -20 degrees Fahrenheit. Cold hardy cacti have evolved features that help them withstand colder temperatures. Most…
The pencil cactus (Euphorbia tirucalli) also known as fire stick or milk bush is a small succulent tree native to semi-arid tropical climates of Africa and India. This plant releases toxic sap when bruised, which can cause skin irritation, eye pain, and a burning sensation in the mouth. Euphorbia tirucalli has smooth cylindrical stems with…
Cacti are beautiful and unique plants that can add a touch of desert to any home. However, some cacti species contain toxic compounds that can be dangerous to pets and humans upon contact with the skin or when ingested. Most cacti evolved to grow spines or be poisonous as a way to protect themselves from…
The growth rate of cacti usually varies depending on various factors including the species, growing conditions, and care provided. Some species of cacti notably grow quite faster in ideal conditions, while others may take several years to show any significant increase in height or branching. Generally, cacti have adapted to a slow growth rate due…
Pumice and perlite are commonly used in making soilless growth media in combination with other organic ingredients like coco coir or peat moss. These coarse non-toxic mineral components are also added to most potting mixes to improve drainage, aeration, and moisture retention. Adding pumice or perlite to standard potting soil makes overwatering impossible. The porosity…
Etiolation is a condition where a plant becomes stretched, pale, and weak due to insufficient light. Since cacti are desert plants adapted to bright sunny conditions, they typically get etiolated when they don’t receive adequate amounts of light. Light is an important source of energy for all green plants. It is used for the production…