5 Fantastic Cactus Species for Your Home

Here are 5 fantastic cactus species for your home. If you have ever wondered how to choose the best indoor cactus for your home, allow us to help. The cacti family is vast and has many different species of cactus plants, both wild and cultivated for domestic houseplants.

Folks find cactus plants to be easy care companions because unlike a lot of the tropical plants, which require higher levels of humidity, warmer temperatures, and specific moisture levels; cactus species are dessert plants that can be left for longer periods and don’t require the carefully cultivated environments.

From striking color variations and intriguing shapes, to the simple and fuss free nature of the cactus plant; there is no arguing that they make beautiful additions to any home or office. They make a great beginner plant, so let’s discuss our favorite 5 varieties.

Contents show

What makes cactus a great houseplant option?

Most cacti are low maintenance plants requiring very little water, a drier environment, and can withstand cooler temperatures than many of the tropical houseplants that are sought out. Sunlight exposure is important for cacti, but many can thrive on only a few hours a day.

Some of the varieties will even bloom throughout the year when thriving and healthy, which is always a welcomed pop of beauty. There is variety in the size and growth pattern of many of these plants; so, you can select one that fits your space best. It’s another reason these plants are fantastic options for many spaces. They won’t require regular pruning, they don’t grow tall, they won’t trail; they are cute potted focal points that bring pops of beauty and exotic flair.

Figure out what is important to you

All cactus are considered succulents in the nature of their growth habits, the environmental needs, and the familiar appearance of these plants in blooms and leaves. However, there are differences among the species that you need to consider. Here are some things to figure out when trying to decide on a specific plant for your home.

Spines or no spines. Those familiar spikes that these plants are known for are called glochids. Some have them, some don’t; some have sharp spines, some have softer spines called hairs. Consider where the plant will be placed and who will be around it when trying to decide between a spiny or smooth species.
Traditional bulb cactus or a tall cactus. Some will stay small and bulbous in their growth and size, some will grow tall and skinny, or droop over the sides of the pot with vibrant flowers. Be sure to think through the look that you are going for, as well as the size of area that the plant will be living in.
Be aware of the toxic varieties. Some are toxic if ingested, but not all. If you have pets be sure you know which one you have.
Does the plant have a dormant period that requires less watering and light. Many plants will rest or go dormant during the winter months; some more seriously than others. Be sure you are aware of the specific needs of the species you are selecting so that you don’t over stress the plant during periods of needed rest; or abandon the plant that might need more continuous care year round.

Here are our 5 favorite varieties to consider for your home

The Grafted Moon Cactus

The Moon Cactus are well loved by plant enthusiasts. This is an eye catching cactus. It’s small size also makes it perfect for an indoor plant. It is generally easy to care for requiring well-draining soil, bright but indirect sunlight, and infrequent watering. It makes a wonderful window sill or desk top companion.

Warm temperatures between 70-80 degrees F but can withstand down to 50 degrees F
Repot every 2-3 years when it finally outgrows its current container
Can live 2-10 years when properly cared for, but won’t grow larger than 6 inches all around
Some varieties will bloom occasionally when healthy and happy

The Rebutia Cactus

Astonishingly pretty and small enough to go just about anywhere. Rebutias bring a touch of natural wonder and desert charm to any plant collection. From fiery reds and sunny yellows to delicate pinks and oranges, their funnel-shaped blooms offer vibrancy and elegance wherever you place them.

Warm to hot temps between 60-85 degrees F but require a dormant period of 50-60 degrees F
Repot every 2-3 years making sure to keep them in shallow pots due to their small root systems
Will live for many years but stay small ranging between 2-8 inches depending on the variety
Blooms and flowers will vary depending on the variety that you have

The Christmas Cactus

The Christmas Cactus has an interesting structure and texture that make it a beauty year round. The green glossy leaves grow into flat, serrated, segmented stems. The trailing stems gracefully arch downwards to hang over the pot. The flowers are available in various colors, including shades of pink, red, orange, purple, and white. The blossoms are tubular in shape, with wavy, pointed petals that form a radial symmetry.

Bright, indirect sunlight and mild temperatures between 60-70 degrees F and moderate humidity
Regular pruning after the blooming period or during spring
Mature plants will grow 6–12 inches tall and 12–24 inches wide
More sensitive to watering inconsistencies that other cactus

The Bunny Ear Cactus

The easy Bunny Ears cactus care requirements make it a wonderful plant for the home. The presence of glochids adds a fuzzy soft looking texture creating a whimsical and playful atmosphere. The number of pads or “ears” on a Bunny Ear cactus can vary depending on the age, growth, and overall health of the plant. While some Bunny Ears cactus may initially start with two pads, as the cactus matures and continues to grow, it will normally grow additional pads over time. You can prune the cactus to fit the ‘bunny appearance’ if you like.

Indirect sunlight and mild to warm temperatures between 60-85 degrees F
The plant can reach a mature size of 1-2 feet in height and width, but they are slow growers
This cactus is sensitive to overwatering and susceptible to root rot
In the wild this plant will flower, it is not common when grown in containers

The Golden Ball Cactus

The Golden Ball cactus is well known and sought after by cactus enthusiasts and collectors. They love this cactus for its compact size, vibrant golden spines, and occasional bursts of yellow flowers. As it grows, the plant elongates into a golden spiky column. The cactus is mature at a bout five years. Growth is easily controlled by keeping it in a small pot. It is known for its spectacular blooming displays in spring and summer producing beautiful flowers in shades of yellow.

Bright, indirect sunlight of 4-6 hours daily and temperatures between 60-85 degrees F
Average humidity and watering schedule will be necessary for this plant to thrive
Mature size can be large but growth can be controlled by container size to keep them small
Flowers are a variety of yellow blooms that this plant is known and enjoyed for

Sourcing plants if they are not native to your area

If you live in a zone that is hospitable to cactus, you will likely find a variety available in your local gardens, plant nurseries, even landscaping companies. If you don’t live in an area where they are sold locally you will most likely need to order your online.

There are many different companies and websites to explore, just be sure you do your research and source from a trustworthy, knowledgeable grower who understands what you are looking for and will guide you to the correct plants.

Etsy is a fantastic place to start, and you can find many reputable plant enthusiasts to support
CLICK HERE TO SHOP ETSY FOR A VARIETY OF CACTUS PLANTS

We love succulents, and there is no shortage of options to choose from if you are looking for adorable dessert plants to adorn your home or office. Just be sure to consider the environment, the care that you can provide the plant, and the specific characteristics that you are seeking in a plant when making your decision.