33 Best Popular Types of Cactus You Can Grow at Home

If you’ve ever dreamt of turning your home into a miniature desert oasis, growing cacti might just be the perfect adventure for you. Imagine your living space adorned with these incredible houseplants, each with its unique flair, standing tall like nature’s sculptures. In this article, we’re diving deep into the prickly wonderland of cacti, discovering 33 of the best and most popular types of cactus that you can cultivate right in the cozy corners of your home.

Imagine this: a miniature landscape of slow-growing wonders, each armed with sharp spines and donning a variety of colors. Some boast yellow spines, adding a touch of sunshine to your indoor garden. These houseplants are like the rebels of the botanical world, thriving in conditions where others might wither. They are true survivors, adapted to arid climates and capable of going for weeks without a sip of water.

Now, let’s get to know our green companions. From the iconic Saguaro Cactus, standing tall and proud like a desert skyscraper, to the charming Christmas Cactus, spreading festive vibes with its blooms during the holiday season – the cactus family is a diverse bunch. Some form clusters, like a tight-knit group of friends, while others dangle elegantly from hanging baskets, showcasing their fleshy stems with pride. It’s a vibrant community with different types of cacti contributing their unique charm to the green tapestry.

These fascinating species of cacti hail from various corners of the globe. From the United States to South America, they’ve adapted to different climates, making them resilient additions to your indoor garden. Imagine having a piece of the Arizona desert or the South American plains right in your living room! Whether you’re a seasoned plant parent or a newbie to the world of chlorophyll, these houseplants offer an intriguing peek into the marvels of the natural world.

Apart from being aesthetic marvels, cacti also serve practical purposes. Some are known for their medicinal properties, while others are cultivated for their unique fruits. They’re like the Swiss Army knives of the plant kingdom, offering more than meets the eye. Plus, they’re low-maintenance – perfect for those of us who might not have the greenest thumbs.

Here are the best types of cactus plants you can grow at home:

1. Saguaro Cactus (Carnegiea gigantea)

Botanical Name: Carnegiea gigantea

Mature Size: Up to 40 feet tall

Bloom Time: Late spring to early summer

Leaf Color: N/A (Saguaro has modified leaves in the form of spines)

Flower Color: Creamy white

Light: Full sun

Soil Needs: Well-draining soil

USDA Hardiness Zones: 9 to 11

The Saguaro Cactus, Carnegiea gigantea, is an iconic symbol of the American Southwest. Known for its tall, branching structure and distinctive silhouette, the Saguaro is well-adapted to arid environments. Its large, white flowers bloom in late spring, attracting pollinators like bats and birds. Saguaro Cacti play a crucial role in the ecosystem, providing habitat for various species.

2. Barrel Cactus (Ferocactus spp.)

Botanical Name: Ferocactus spp.

Mature Size: Varies by species, generally small to medium-sized

Bloom Time: Spring to summer

Leaf Color: Green to bluish-green

Flower Color: Yellow to red

Light: Full sun

Soil Needs: Well-draining, sandy soil

USDA Hardiness Zones: 9 to 11

Barrel Cacti, belonging to the genus Ferocactus, are known for their cylindrical shape and ribbed structure. These hardy desert plants are adapted to harsh conditions and are characterized by colorful, funnel-shaped flowers that bloom atop the cactus. They thrive in full sunlight and well-draining soils, making them suitable for arid landscapes. This iconic round cactus is easily recognizable and probably the most popular type used in drought-tolerant areas.

3. Prickly Pear Cactus (Opuntia spp.)

Botanical Name: Opuntia spp.

Mature Size: Varies by species can range from small to large

Bloom Time: Spring to early summer

Leaf Color: Green to blue-green

Flower Color: Yellow, orange, or pink

Light: Full sun

Soil Needs: Well-draining, sandy soil

USDA Hardiness Zones: 3 to 11

The Prickly Pear Cactus, belonging to the genus Opuntia, is recognized by its flat, paddle-shaped stems called pads. These cacti are adorned with vibrant, showy flowers and often produce edible fruits known as prickly pears. They are well-suited for sunny, arid environments and thrive in well-draining soils.

4. Christmas Cactus (Schlumbergera spp.)

Botanical Name: Schlumbergera spp.

Mature Size: Compact, typically around 1-2 feet

Bloom Time: Late fall to early winter

Leaf Color: Dark green

Flower Color: Various colors, including red, pink, white

Light: Indirect light or filtered sunlight

Soil Needs: Well-draining, slightly acidic soil

USDA Hardiness Zones: 10 to 12

Christmas Cactus, belonging to the genus Schlumbergera, are popular for their vibrant blooms during the holiday season. These epiphytic cacti have flattened stems and thrive in indirect light. Unlike many desert cacti, they prefer slightly acidic soils.

5. Golden Barrel Cactus (Echinocactus grusonii)

Botanical Name: Echinocactus grusonii

Mature Size: Up to 3 feet in height and diameter

Bloom Time: Spring

Leaf Color: Green to blue-green

Flower Color: Yellow

Light: Full sun, direct sunlight

Soil Needs: Well-draining, sandy soil

USDA Hardiness Zones: 9 to 11

The Golden Barrel Cactus, Echinocactus grusonii, is a striking spherical cactus native to Mexico. Known for its distinctive golden spines and compact form, it adds a bold touch to arid gardens. During spring, it produces yellow flowers near the crown. This cactus thrives in full sun and well-draining soils. This beautiful, fast-growing cactus keeps its rounded shape.

6. Fishhook Cactus (Mammillaria spp.)

Botanical Name: Mammillaria spp.

Mature Size: Varies by species, generally small

Bloom Time: Spring to early summer

Leaf Color: Green to bluish-green

Flower Color: White, pink, or yellow

Light: Full sun

Soil Needs: Well-draining, sandy soil

USDA Hardiness Zones: 9 to 11

Fishhook Cacti, members of the genus Mammillaria, are characterized by their small, cylindrical shape and prominent spines, often curved like fishhooks. They produce charming flowers in various colors, adding to their ornamental appeal. These cacti thrive in full sunlight and well-draining soils, making them suitable for rock gardens or containers.

7. Moon Cactus (Gymnocalycium mihanovichii)

Botanical Name: Gymnocalycium mihanovichii

Mature Size: Typically 4-6 inches in height

Bloom Time: Spring to summer

Leaf Color: Various colors, including red, orange, and yellow

Flower Color: Pink to purple

Light: Bright, indirect light

Soil Needs: Well-draining cactus mix

USDA Hardiness Zones: 9 to 11

Moon Cacti, scientifically known as Gymnocalycium mihanovichii, are unique for their colorful, flattened stems. These cacti are actually a grafted combination of a colorful top (scion) and a rootstock cactus. They prefer bright, indirect light and well-draining soil.

8. Bunny Ears Cactus (Opuntia microdasys)

Botanical Name: Opuntia microdasys

Mature Size: Up to 1 foot in height

Bloom Time: Spring to early summer

Leaf Color: Green, covered in glochids (tiny spines)

Flower Color: Yellow

Light: Full sun

Soil Needs: Well-draining, sandy soil

USDA Hardiness Zones: 9 to 11

Bunny Ears Cactus, scientifically known as Opuntia microdasys, is a small, pad-forming cactus covered in soft, hair-like spines known as glochids. Its resemblance to rabbit ears gives it its common name. During the spring, vibrant yellow flowers emerge, adding a pop of color. This cactus thrives in full sunlight and well-draining soils.

9. Organ Pipe Cactus (Stenocereus thurberi)

Botanical Name: Stenocereus thurberi

Mature Size: Up to 23 feet in height

Bloom Time: Late spring to early summer

Leaf Color: N/A (Stenocereus cacti have modified leaves in the form of spines)

Flower Color: Creamy white

Light: Full sun

Soil Needs: Well-draining, sandy soil

USDA Hardiness Zones: 9 to 11

Organ Pipe Cactus, or Stenocereus thurberi, is native to the Sonoran Desert and is named for its multiple vertical stems that resemble organ pipes. It produces beautiful white flowers in late spring, attracting nocturnal pollinators. This cactus prefers full sunlight and well-draining soil.

10. Dragon Fruit Cactus (Hylocereus undatus)

Botanical Name: Hylocereus undatus

Mature Size: Up to 20 feet in length

Bloom Time: Night-blooming, typically in summer

Leaf Color: Green

Flower Color: White or yellow, often followed by edible fruit

Light: Full sun to partial shade

Soil Needs: Well-draining soil

USDA Hardiness Zones: 10 to 11

Dragon Fruit Cactus, scientifically known as Hylocereus undatus, is a climbing cactus known for its large, night-blooming flowers and unique, edible fruits. The flowers are typically white or yellow and bloom in the summer. This cactus can tolerate partial shade but generally prefers full sun.

11. Peyote Cactus (Lophophora williamsii)

Botanical Name: Lophophora williamsii

Mature Size: Low-growing, up to 3 inches in height

Bloom Time: Late spring to early summer

Leaf Color: Green to bluish-green

Flower Color: Pink or white

Light: Full sun

Soil Needs: Well-draining, mineral-rich soil

USDA Hardiness Zones: 9 to 11

Peyote Cactus, or Lophophora williamsii, is a small, button-like cactus known for its psychoactive properties. It has low, spineless globular stems and produces pink or white flowers in late spring. This cactus is adapted to arid conditions and requires well-draining, mineral-rich soil.

12. Easter Cactus (Hatiora gaertneri)

Botanical Name: Hatiora gaertneri

Mature Size: Up to 12 inches in height

Bloom Time: Late winter to early spring

Leaf Color: Dark green

Flower Color: Various colors, including pink, red, and white

Light: Indirect light or filtered sunlight

Soil Needs: Well-draining, slightly acidic soil

USDA Hardiness Zones: 10 to 12

Easter Cactus, scientifically named Hatiora gaertneri, is a charming, epiphytic cactus that produces colorful flowers in late winter or early spring. Unlike other cacti, it prefers indirect light and slightly acidic soil. Its flattened stems and vibrant blooms make it a popular choice for indoor gardens.

13. Queen of the Night (Epiphyllum oxypetalum)

Botanical Name: Epiphyllum oxypetalum

Mature Size: Up to 10 feet in length

Bloom Time: Night-blooming, typically in late spring to summer

Leaf Color: Dark green, flat stems

Flower Color: White, fragrant

Light: Bright, indirect light

Soil Needs: Well-draining, rich soil

USDA Hardiness Zones: 10 to 12

Queen of the Night, or Epiphyllum oxypetalum, is an epiphytic cactus known for its large, fragrant, night-blooming flowers. The flat stems, often mistaken for leaves, make it unique among cacti. This cactus thrives in bright, indirect light and requires well-draining, nutrient-rich soil.

14. Old Lady Cactus (Mammillaria hahniana)

Botanical Name: Mammillaria hahniana

Mature Size: Up to 6 inches in height

Bloom Time: Spring to early summer

Leaf Color: Green, covered in soft white hairs

Flower Color: Pink to purple

Light: Full sun

Soil Needs: Well-draining, sandy soil

USDA Hardiness Zones: 9 to 11

Old Lady Cactus, or Mammillaria hahniana, is a small, globose cactus known for its dense covering of soft white hairs, resembling an old woman’s hair. It produces charming pink to purple flowers in the spring. Thriving in full sunlight and well-draining soil, this cactus is suitable for rock gardens or containers.

15. Fairy Castle Cactus (Acanthocereus tetragonus)

Botanical Name: Acanthocereus tetragonus

Mature Size: Up to 5 feet in height

Bloom Time: Night-blooming, typically in summer

Leaf Color: Green, multi-ribbed stems

Flower Color: White to cream

Light: Full sun to partial shade

Soil Needs: Well-draining, sandy soil

USDA Hardiness Zones: 9 to 11

The Fairy Castle Cactus, scientifically known as Acanthocereus tetragonus, is a unique columnar cactus with multiple ribs that resemble castle turrets. This cactus produces night-blooming white to cream flowers and thrives in full sun to partial shade. Well-draining, sandy soil is crucial for its health. Fairy Castle cactus blooms are greenish-white flowers.

16. Pincushion Cactus (Mammillaria crinita)

Botanical Name: Mammillaria crinita

Mature Size: Up to 6 inches in height

Bloom Time: Spring to early summer

Leaf Color: Green, covered in soft white spines

Flower Color: Pink to purple

Light: Full sun

Soil Needs: Well-draining, sandy soil

USDA Hardiness Zones: 9 to 11

The Pincushion Cactus, or Mammillaria crinita, is a small, spherical cactus with dense white spines that give it a pincushion-like appearance. It produces lovely pink to purple flowers in the spring. Thriving in full sunlight and well-draining soil, this cactus is well-suited for rock gardens or containers.

17. Star Cactus (Astrophytum asterias)

Botanical Name: Astrophytum asterias

Mature Size: Up to 12 inches in height

Bloom Time: Spring to early summer

Leaf Color: Green, with distinctive star-shaped patterns

Flower Color: Yellow with red throat

Light: Full sun

Soil Needs: Well-draining, sandy soil

USDA Hardiness Zones: 9 to 11

Star Cactus, scientifically known as Astrophytum asterias, is a small, globular cactus recognized for its unique star-shaped patterns on its surface. It produces bright yellow flowers with a red throat in the spring. This cactus thrives in full sunlight and well-draining soil.

18. Ladyfinger Cactus (Mammillaria elongata)

Botanical Name: Mammillaria elongata

Mature Size: Up to 6 inches in height

Bloom Time: Spring to early summer

Leaf Color: Green, elongated stems

Flower Color: Pink to purple

Light: Full sun

Soil Needs: Well-draining, sandy soil

USDA Hardiness Zones: 9 to 11

Ladyfinger Cactus, or Mammillaria elongata, is a small, cylindrical cactus with elongated stems. It produces charming pink to purple flowers in the spring. Thriving in full sunlight and well-draining soil, this cactus is suitable for rock gardens or containers.

19. Fishbone Cactus (Epiphyllum anguliger)

Botanical Name: Epiphyllum anguliger

Mature Size: Up to 6 feet in length

Bloom Time: Night-blooming, typically in summer

Leaf Color: Green, with zigzag-shaped stems

Flower Color: White to cream

Light: Bright, indirect light

Soil Needs: Well-draining, rich soil

USDA Hardiness Zones: 10 to 12

Fishbone Cactus, scientifically known as Epiphyllum anguliger, is an epiphytic cactus recognized for its unique, zigzag-shaped stems resembling fishbones. It produces night-blooming white to cream flowers. This cactus thrives in bright, indirect light and requires well-draining, nutrient-rich soil.

20. Pencil Cactus (Euphorbia tirucalli)

Botanical Name: Euphorbia tirucalli

Mature Size: Up to 30 feet in height

Bloom Time: Rarely blooms indoors

Leaf Color: Green, pencil-like cylindrical stems

Flower Color: Insignificant, if present

Light: Full sun to partial shade

Soil Needs: Well-draining soil

USDA Hardiness Zones: 10 to 12

The Pencil Cactus, scientifically known as Euphorbia tirucalli, is not a true cactus but is often grouped with succulents due to its appearance. It features green, pencil-like stems and rarely produces insignificant flowers. Thriving in full sun to partial shade, this plant requires well-draining soil.

21. Crown Cactus (Rebutia spp.)

Botanical Name: Rebutia spp.

Mature Size: Up to 6 inches in height

Bloom Time: Spring to early summer

Leaf Color: Green, small, globular shape

Flower Color: Various colors, including red, orange, and yellow

Light: Full sun

Soil Needs: Well-draining, sandy soil

USDA Hardiness Zones: 9 to 11

Crown Cacti, members of the genus Rebutia, are small, globular cacti known for their colorful flowers and compact size. They bloom in spring with flowers in various shades, including red, orange, and yellow. These cacti thrive in full sunlight and well-draining soil.

22. Parodia Cactus (Parodia spp.)

Botanical Name: Parodia spp.

Mature Size: Varies by species, generally small to medium-sized

Bloom Time: Spring to early summer

Leaf Color: Green, ribbed, or spherical shape

Flower Color: Yellow to orange

Light: Full sun

Soil Needs: Well-draining, sandy soil

USDA Hardiness Zones: 9 to 11

Parodia Cacti belonging to the genus Parodia are small to medium-sized cacti with distinctive ribbed or spherical shapes. They produce cheerful yellow to orange flowers in the spring. Thriving in full sunlight and well-draining soil, these cacti are suitable for rock gardens or containers.

23. Hedgehog Cactus (Echinocereus spp.)

Botanical Name: Echinocereus spp.

Mature Size: Varies by species, generally small to medium-sized

Bloom Time: Late spring to early summer

Leaf Color: Green, cylindrical, or spherical shape

Flower Color: Pink, magenta, or red

Light: Full sun

Soil Needs: Well-draining, sandy soil

USDA Hardiness Zones: 5 to 11

Hedgehog Cacti, members of the genus Echinocereus, are characterized by their cylindrical or spherical shape and vibrant flowers. Blooming in late spring, these cacti thrive in full sunlight and well-draining soil.

24. Rat Tail Cactus (Aporocactus flagelliformis)

Botanical Name: Aporocactus flagelliformis

Mature Size: Up to 6 feet in length

Bloom Time: Late spring to early summer

Leaf Color: Green, long, trailing stems

Flower Color: Pink, orange, to red

Light: Bright, indirect light to partial sun

Soil Needs: Well-draining, rich soil

USDA Hardiness Zones: 10 to 11

Rat Tail Cactus, scientifically known as Aporocactus flagelliformis, is an epiphytic cactus with long, trailing stems. It produces vibrant pink to red flowers in late spring. Preferring bright, indirect light to partial sun, this cactus requires well-draining, nutrient-rich soil.

25. Mistletoe Cactus (Rhipsalis spp.)

Botanical Name: Rhipsalis spp.

Mature Size: Varies by species, generally small to medium-sized

Bloom Time: Spring to early summer

Leaf Color: Green, flattened or cylindrical stems

Flower Color: White or cream

Light: Indirect light or filtered sunlight

Soil Needs: Well-draining, rich soil

USDA Hardiness Zones: 10 to 12

Mistletoe Cacti, belonging to the genus Rhipsalis, are epiphytic cacti known for their flattened or cylindrical stems. They produce delicate white or cream flowers in spring. Preferring indirect light or filtered sunlight, these cacti thrive in well-draining, nutrient-rich soil.

26. Feather Cactus (Mammillaria plumosa)

Botanical Name: Mammillaria plumosa

Mature Size: Up to 6 inches in height

Bloom Time: Spring to early summer

Leaf Color: Green, covered in soft white spines resembling feathers

Flower Color: Cream to yellow

Light: Full sun

Soil Needs: Well-draining, sandy soil

USDA Hardiness Zones: 9 to 11

Feather Cactus, or Mammillaria plumosa, is a small, globose cactus distinguished by its soft, white spines that resemble feathers. It produces cream to yellow flowers in the spring, adding to its ornamental appeal. Thriving in full sunlight and well-draining soil, this cactus is suitable for rock gardens or containers.

27. Silver Ball Cactus (Notocactus scopa)

Botanical Name: Notocactus scopa

Mature Size: Up to 6 inches in diameter

Bloom Time: Late spring to early summer

Leaf Color: Green, spherical shape covered in silver spines

Flower Color: Yellow to orange

Light: Full sun

Soil Needs: Well-draining, sandy soil

USDA Hardiness Zones: 9 to 11

Silver Ball Cactus, or Notocactus scopa, is a small, spherical cactus recognized for its silver spines and vibrant yellow to orange flowers in late spring. This cactus thrives in full sunlight and well-draining soil, making it suitable for rock gardens or containers.

28. Old Man Cactus (Cephalocereus senilis)

Botanical Name: Cephalocereus senilis

Mature Size: Up to 50 feet in height, but often smaller in cultivation

Bloom Time: Spring to early summer

Leaf Color: Green, covered in long, white hairs resembling an old man’s beard

Flower Color: Pink to purplish-red

Light: Full sun

Soil Needs: Well-draining, sandy soil

USDA Hardiness Zones: 9 to 11

Old Man Cactus, scientifically known as Cephalocereus senilis, is a tall columnar cactus covered in long, white hairs resembling an old man’s beard. It produces pink to purplish-red flowers in spring. Thriving in full sunlight and well-draining soil, this cactus is suitable for landscape planting.

29. Arizona Barrel Cactus (Ferocactus wislizeni)

Scientific Name: Ferocactus wislizeni

Mature Size: Up to 10 feet in height

Bloom Time: Late spring to early summer

Leaf Color: Green, cylindrical shape with prominent ribs and spines

Flower Color: Yellow to orange

Light: Full sun

Soil Needs: Well-draining, sandy soil

USDA Hardiness Zones: 9 to 11

Arizona Barrel Cactus, or Ferocactus wislizeni, is a large, cylindrical cactus native to the deserts of Arizona. It features prominent ribs and spines, providing it with a distinct appearance. In late spring to early summer, the cactus produces vibrant yellow to orange flowers, adding to its ornamental value. Thriving in full sunlight and well-draining, sandy soil, this cactus is well-suited for arid landscapes and rock gardens.

30. Thanksgiving Cactus (Schlumbergera truncata)

Botanical Name: Schlumbergera truncata

Mature Size: Up to 1-3 feet in width

Bloom Time: Late fall to early winter

Leaf Color: Dark green, segmented flat stems

Flower Color: Various colors, including pink, red, and white

Light: Bright, indirect light

Soil Needs: Well-draining, rich soil

USDA Hardiness Zones: 10 to 12

Thanksgiving Cactus, scientifically known as Schlumbergera truncata, is an epiphytic cactus with flat, segmented stems. Blooming in late fall to early winter, it produces vibrant flowers in various shades, such as pink, red, and white. Unlike typical cacti, Thanksgiving Cactus thrives in bright, indirect light and requires well-draining, nutrient-rich soil.

 

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