Types of Indoor Cactus: A Guide To Growing Great Cacti Indoors

Featured, Gardening, Succulents

There are many beautiful types of indoor cactus that you can or should keep in your home or office. Today, we’ll look at some of the best.

You’ve probably seen cacti decorating the exteriors of many homes and office buildings. There are many types of cacti that can be grown, but not all of them will do well in all climates or indoor environments. In order to move into your perfect spot, you need to make sure you select the right type of plants for your home or workplace.

Types of indoor cactus Contents

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Few plants are better for beginners who want to grow plants in their homes than hardy, low-maintenance cactus plants. Overall, cactus plants need warm temperatures, bright light, and very little water. There are a few exceptions, but the general needs are the same. The best part is that many types will bloom with cheery, brightly colored flowers if they get the attention they need.

Cacti, which come in a variety of sizes, colors, and shapes, are an intriguing indoor plant option. You can put one or more pots here. They are a no-brainer because they complement most interior design styles.

What Are Indoor Cacti?

Indoor cactus plants are a type of succulent that is popular for its unique appearance and impressive size. These plants thrive in low light conditions and can be kept as part of a home decorating scheme.

There are several types of indoor cactus plants, each with its own unique characteristics. Some of the most common types of indoor cactus plants include aloe vera, taxodium, and succulents. Each type of cactus has its own benefits, so it is important to choose the right one for your home.

Aloe vera is a popular type of indoor cactus plant because it is capable of regenerating itself. This means that if a piece is cut off from the plant, it will grow back in place within a few weeks. Additionally, aloe vera is known for its soothing properties, which can help to relax the mind and body.

Taxodium is another popular type of indoor cactus plant because it grows rapidly. This makes it perfect for use in small spaces or as part of a decorative scheme. Additionally, taxodium is resistant to pests and weather conditions, making it an ideal choice for homes with high humidity levels.

Pros: These plants are great for homes with limited floor space. They can also be used to add greenery and decor to small spaces, such as offices and waiting rooms.

Cons: The species of taxodium have a long tap root which may cause issues if they are planted in areas where they will be exposed to the ground.

Types of Indoor Cactus Plants

There are many different types of cactus plants that you can add to your home. Some of the most popular cactus plants include the candle cactus, Christmas cactus, and peace lilies.

Each type of cactus has its own unique features and benefits. For example, the candle cactus is a popular indoor plant because it grows rapidly and produces large flowers. Christmas cactus is known for its festive looks and fragrant flowers, and peace lilies are popular for their longflowering stems and dainty flowers.

If you’re looking for an interesting addition to your home, consider adding a few cactus plants to your collection. They’re perfect for people who want a low-maintenance plants that add beauty and personality to their homes.

What are some considerations for choosing the right indoor cactus for your home?

When choosing the right indoor cactus for your home, several factors include cactus species, cactus size, cactus care requirements, and location. Some popular cactus species for indoor use include the houseplant cactus (Echinocereus), the desert cactus (Epiphyllum), and the Mexican Hat cactus (Schlumbergera). Generally speaking, larger cacti are better suited for indoor plants because they require less watering and tend to be more sturdy. Likewise, cacti that require little or no water (such as the houseplant cactus) are not ideal for indoor use because they may not survive in a dry environment. Finally, it would be best to choose cacti based on their location and light needs. Cacti that thrive in direct sunlight may not be suitable for dark indoor cactus varieties come in many different colors and shapes, with spines on the leaves to indicate how many there are. They have strong protective energy, so they are not recommended for living rooms, bedrooms, or front entrances. Most indoor cactus plants are kept in a small pot on a sunny window sill and watered regularly.

While cacti prefer partial or bright sunlight, interiors may do fine in a home with moderate lighting.

Growing Cactus as a Houseplant

If you’re looking for an interesting houseplant to add to your collection, cactus may be a good option. Cacti are succulents, meaning they store water in their tissues. This makes them ideal for growing as houseplants because they don’t need a lot of water and they don’t require too much care.

There are many types of cactus that you can grow as houseplants. Some common types of cactus include the aloe, agave, and yucca cacti. All of these cacti can be grown indoors and will require very little care. All you need is a pot that is large enough to fit the cactus, some potting soil, and some water.

If you’re looking to add a cactus to your home, consider choosing one of the popular types like the aloe or agave. These cacti are easy to grow and will add both aesthetic value and functionality to your home.

Common Indoor Cacti and Their Uses

Indoor cacti are plants that are best suited for homes with moderate to high humidity levels. They can also handle lower humidity levels, but will likely experience shorter growth periods.

There are a number of different types of indoor cacti that you can add to your home. Some of the most common include the Aloe Vera, Echeveria, and Sedum.

Aloe Vera is often used as a topical treatment for burns, cuts, and other skin problems. It is also a popular plant for people who suffer from anxiety or depression. Echeveria is a succulent that is commonly used for its ornamental features. Sedum is a type of succulent that can be used in landscaping or as an indoor plant.

Indoor Cacti Varieties

While cacti are well-known for their affinity for direct sunlight, many thrive as indoor plants. Consider placing one on your windowsill or in your living room for a unique look. Indoor cacti require less light and are typically smaller in stature, making them the ideal houseplant.

What are the prices of indoor cacti?

It differs. A single cactus in a simple pot can be purchased for less than $10. Alternatively, you can spend more than $100 on an elaborate multi-cactus planter. There are options for every price range in between.

Cacti can and should be placed anywhere in your home or office.

It depends on the amount of sunlight they require and, of course, on your personal preferences. A lot of places can get a new look with these things: the kitchen, the living room, home office, bathroom, and bedroom. Small indoor cactus plants can fit into small spaces, like nooks and crannies. Larger cactus planters can be put on shelves, tables, bay windows, and so on.

Please keep in mind that cacti require a lot of sunlight, so make sure it gets plenty of it wherever you put it.

There are many different types of indoor cactus that can be found all over the world. Some of the most common types are as follows:

23 Types of Indoor Cactus You Should Add To Your Home

We’ve put together a list of some of our favorite indoor cactus plants that you can buy. You should also keep them away from kids and pets because many of these plants have sharp spines that can be painful. You should wear protective gear or use tongs when handling these plants.

Dwarf Chin Cactus

Botanical Name: Gymnocalycium baldianum
Sun Exposure: Bright, indirect light or part shade
Soil Type: Cactus or succulent mix
Soil pH: 5-7

This round, low-growing species, also known as spider cactus, is native to Argentina. Most people know it for its brightly colored flowers, which come in white, red, pink, purple, or orange. The stem of this type of cactus is a little squat and slightly flattened. It’s less dangerous than other kinds of cactus.

A few things make this plant a little different from the others on this list: It needs to be kept out of direct sunlight, and it likes a little more water. Please give it a soak every few weeks or when the top inch of soil feels dry.

Ladyfinger Cactus (Mammillaria Elongata)

Botanical Name: Mammillaria elongata
Sun Exposure: Full to part sun
Soil Type: Cactus or succulent mix
Soil pH: 6.1-6.5
Water needs: Very little water.
Sunlight needs: Plenty of sun (direct).

Spiny cactus: The name comes from the long, finger-like growths that make it look like a cactus. It is native to Mexico. It’s the same thing you should do with other cacti. Plant your ladyfinger in a gritty mix and well-draining; only water a little every few weeks to avoid root rot when the soil is dry.

If you’re going to repot or propagate this plant, use tongs or gloves to avoid scratching your hands; because it’s so spiny.

Blue Columnar Cactus (Pilosocereus pachycladus)

Water needs: Weekly
Sunlight needs: Plenty of direct sunlight.

Cacti that grow tall, thin, and blue are truly one-of-a-kind. They can reach a height of over 30 feet in the wild, but don’t expect that to happen in your home.

African Milk Tree (Euphorbia Trigona)

Botanical Name: Euphorbia trigona
Sun Exposure: Full sun to part shade
Soil Type: Cactus or succulent potting mix
Soil pH: 6.1-7.8
Water needs: Water when top soil (1 inch) is dry.
Sunlight needs: Plenty of sunlight.

These tall and slender cacti thrive indoors. While this is a wild cactus found in West Africa, many people enjoy decorating their homes with these vibrant green cacti that are comparatively easy to care for. The Rubra or Royal Red cultivars will give you a burst of deep burgundy color in addition to the more traditional dark green.

Fairy Castle Cactus

Water needs: Let soil dry but then water deeply.
Sunlight needs: Plenty of direct sunlight.

It was appropriately named for its fairy tale castle appearance, most likely referring to Neuschwanstein Castle.

Saguaro Cactus

Botanical Name: Carnegiea gigantea
Sun Exposure: Full sun
Soil Type: Succulent soil or cactus mix
Soil pH: 5.0-6.5

This iconic cactus comes to mind when we think of Southwest desert landscapes. With the right care, you can keep them for a long time.

Water your saguaro sparingly—once a month, allowing the soil to dry completely between waterings—and provide it with bright, direct sunlight. You can take it outside to get full sun in the spring and summer when the nighttime temperature is above 60 degrees.

Chin Cactus (Gymnocalycium)

Water needs: Moderate. Let soil dry, but then water deeply.
Sunlight needs: Moderate sunlight. Indirect is good.

You can put Chin cactus in a pot with taller cacti to make it look like a ground cover or use it as a filler.

Angel Wings Cactus (Opunta albispina)

Botanical Name: Opuntia microdasys
Sun Exposure: Full sun
Soil Type: Cactus or succulent soil
Soil pH: 6.0-7.5
Water needs: Regular watering.
Sunlight needs: Partial sunlight.

One of our favorite cacti is the angel wings cactus. Many people love the thick pads that grow in any direction, but they take up a lot of space, making them very noticeable. They can grow to be two to three feet tall and about the same width, so you’ll need plenty of room for these.

Make sure the window you choose is warm and well-lit, with a south or west-facing view. This plant likes hot, dry, sunny conditions.

Use tongs or special gloves to handle this plant, as its tiny, painful spines will adhere to your skin.

Mammillaria Lenta Cactus

Water needs: Little.
Sunlight needs: Bright and plenty of sunlight.

The cactus mammillaria lenta does not appear to be real. It resembles brambles or a bird’s nest. Despite this, beautiful flowers emerge from the lifeless mesh of cacti.

Prickly Pear Cactus (Opuntia)

Botanical Name: Opuntia
Sun Exposure: Full sun
Soil Type: Cactus or succulent mix
Soil pH: 6.0-7.5
Water needs: Little water (every couple to three weeks tops).
Sunlight needs: Lots of direct sunlight.

When grown outdoors, paddle-shaped cacti bearing brightly colored, edible fruits can also thrive as houseplants under the right conditions. It’s best to put them in an area with a lot of sunlight that faces south or west to get as much direct sunlight as possible. If there isn’t enough light, the pads will grow long and thin instead of wide and full.

Moon Cactus (Gymnocalycium Mihanovichii)

Water needs: Water thoroughly then let it dry out. Repeat.
Sunlight needs: Bright, indirect sunlight.

This plant looks like a sun sitting on top of a pretty standard cactus stem. The moon cactus has a lot of bright colors.

Parodia Cactus

Water needs: Moderate.
Sunlight needs: Indirect sunlight.

When the Parodia cactus is first seen, it resembles a yellow squash falling to the ground. However, upon closer inspection, you’ll notice the numerous barbs protruding from the plant, creating a dangerous appearance.

Barrel Cactus (Ferocactus)

Botanical Name: Echinocactus and Ferrocactus
Sun Exposure: Full sun
Soil Type: Cactus or succulent mix
Soil pH: 6.1-7.5
Water needs: Infrequently (low).
Sunlight needs: Lots. Put near window.

Barrel cacti are a diverse group of squat, spiny cactus species from Echinocactus and Ferocactus. These adorable, round specimens have a variety of colored spines, such as the golden barrel cactus, which has bright yellow spines.

Provide as much warmth and bright light as possible for these cacti, and they will eventually bloom with vibrant flowers.

Prickly Pear Cactus (Opuntia)

Water needs: Little water (every couple to three weeks tops).
Sunlight needs: Lots of direct sunlight.

Because it grows on top of another type of cactus, the Prickly Pear Cactus is unique. This plant has many radish-like parts that look like colorful leaves. They come out of a large, padded leaf-like body. It’s a little ugly, but it’s still fun to look at.

Star Cactus (Astrophytum Asteria)

Water needs: Little.
Sunlight needs: Lots.

Cacti like this one are great for indoors because they are small. They can be grown on their own, and you can also put them together in a pot.

Bishop's Cap (Astrophytum Ornatum)

Botanical Name: Astrophytum myriostigma
Sun Exposure: Full sun to part shade
Soil Type: Cactus or succulent mix
Soil pH: 6.0
Water needs: Moderate water.
Sunlight needs: Quite a bit of sun, but can handle partial shade.

The common name for this Mexican native comes from its squat, star-shaped stem, which resembles a bishop’s distinctively shaped hat.

These ferocious-looking bishop’s cap cacti have long spikes on the pads that grow on them. These are very small cactus plants, with a maximum height of only 100 centimeters.

While this cactus lacks showy spines, it does have a longer bloom duration with a crown of brightly colored flowers when conditions are right.

Because young specimens cannot tolerate as much bright light, keep them in bright, indirect, or shaded light until they mature. Due to their preference for poor, rocky soil, these plants do not require fertilization.

Pincushion Cactus (Mammillaria)

Water needs: Let soil dry out in between watering.
Sunlight needs: Plenty of sunlight.

It’s a good idea to keep the pincushion cactus aside from where you might sit. This is a very unsafe cactus once it gets to the barbs that it grows, though. Good luck with this little cactus that’s a little spiky.

Old Lady Cactus (Mammillaria Hahniana)

Botanical Name: Cephalocereus senilis
Sun Exposure: Full sun
Soil Type: Cactus or succulent mix
Soil pH: 6.1-6.5
Water needs: Weekly.
Sunlight needs: Plenty of indirect sunlight.

The common name for these bulbous green stems comes from their white, hairlike fuzz. They can reach a height of 20 feet in the wild, but as houseplants, you can contain them in a small, unglazed terracotta pot to keep them manageable.

Please do what you can for them to get as much sun as possible, and don’t water them until the soil is dry. Keep an eye out for scale and mealybugs, which can be difficult to spot due to the plant’s white fuzzy hair.

Rat Tail Cactus (Aporocactus Flagelliformis)

Water needs: Moderate to plenty April to November. Less December to March.
Sunlight needs: Bright light.

Such a look the rat tail cactus is! A spooky appearance is softened by an abundance of lovely flowers, which hang from the branches in long snake-like extensions. Even though I doubt you’d be able to tolerate it on your scalp for very long, what a fierce wig that would be!

Bunny Ears Cactus (Opuntia Microdasys)

Water needs: Low.
Sunlight needs: Lots of direct sunlight.

There are two pads on the bunny ears cactus that look like bunny ears, which is why it’s called that, but you already knew that from the picture.

These magnificent creatures can reach two to three feet, which is quite impressive. Remember that they are prickly, so avoid grabbing them by the hands (not spears, but they can puncture the skin).

Christmas Cactus

Botanical Name: Schlumbergera
Sun Exposure: Bright, indirect light
Soil Type: Rich, well-drained potting mix
Soil pH: 5.5 – 6.2

People usually think of the Christmas cactus as being in a hot desert. Its relatives, Thanksgiving and Easter cactus, are native to the Brazilian jungle, so their care needs aren’t the same as those for other cacti on this list, all found in deserts.

Maintain a slight moisture level in the soil throughout the spring and summer growing seasons, allowing it to dry out slightly more between waterings during the winter. If you want it to flower, keep it cool (55 to 65 degrees) with at least 13 hours of darkness each day after it has set buds, even though it prefers warmer temperatures during the growing season.

Totem Pole Cactus (Pachycereus Schottii Monstrosus)

Water needs: Minimal.
Sunlight needs: Lots.

They look very much like carved trunks. It also looks a little like a rock formation. It has a thick, ragged body that rises up, giving it an almost grotesque shape.

Hens-And-Chicks (Echeveria Elegans)

Water needs: Very little.
Sunlight needs: Full sun.

We love these tiny cacti that look great in groups. They are small, but they have a powerful look thanks to their geometrical dome shape and color.

With all the research we did, we came up with this list of 23 of the best indoor cactus plants we like.

Final Verdict

This plant is called a “cactus” because it is part of the Cactaceae family. It is unique and very popular. It’s known for having a lot of different kinds of animals that look very different from each other. They like dry, hot places. Cactus need very little water and thrive in well-drained areas, unlike most plants. Store what water they get so that they can stay alive through droughts.

These two words are often used together, but they don’t always mean the same thing. There are some cacti and some succulents, but not all succulents and cacti are the same. All cacti have areolas, which look like cushions and can be made of spines and other structures like branches and hair. These structures help cacti stay in the same family. Many succulents don’t have areolas, so they belong to a different kind of plant family than the ones that have them.

In general, people think of Cacti as plants that live in the desert. They can, however, live in a home, too! Indoor and outdoor cacti are two different types of plants that we’ve split up into groups. Look at how each plant looks, how much water it needs, and how much sunlight it needs to thrive.

FAQ's

Do I need to water my indoor cactus?

The cactus needs water only when the soil dries out. If you water your cactus too much, it will get waterlogged and die. You should check soil moisture levels regularly and, if necessary, water gently to keep the cactus moist but not wet.

What is the best way to care for my indoor cactus?

Water, sunlight, and moderate humidity.

What is the best place to put my indoor cactus?

Cactus plants need sunlight, so it is best to move the cactus plant outside if you live in an area with little or no sun.

How big should an indoor cactus be?

Cactus size is typically determined by the cactus species, the plant’s growing conditions, and the cactus’ intended use or display. Some cacti used as house plants can grow up to 12 inches (30 cm) in diameter.

What are the types of indoor cacti?

There are many types of indoor cacti, but the most common type is succulent.

How do you care for an indoor cactus in the winter?

The Cactus can be cuddled in a warm place; you should remove water once a week, and the cactus should be misted with water every other day.

What are some common mistakes people make when caring for an indoor cactus?

People often mistake cacti for succulent plants and water them too much, which will cause the cactus to become stunted. Additionally, cactus require high humidity levels, so keeping the cactus well-watered but not overly wet is important.

What types of cacti are best for indoor use?

Cacti are best suited for indoor use in areas that receive little direct sunlight.

Conclusion

Cacti are a beautiful addition to any home, and choosing the right cactus for your indoor environment is essential. Learn about the different types of cacti and find the perfect one for you in our blog. We also provide tips on how to water cacti properly to keep them healthy and happy!