33 Best Popular Types of Cactus You Can Grow at Home (2024)

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

Imagine this: a miniature landscape of slow-growing wonders, each armed withsharp spinesand donning a variety of colors. Some boastyellow spines, adding a touch of sunshine to your indoor garden. Thesehouseplantsare like the rebels of the botanical world, thriving in conditions where others might wither. They are true survivors, adapted to aridclimatesand capable of going for weeks without a sip of water.

Now, let’s get to know our green companions. From the iconicSaguaro Cactus, standing tall and proud like a desert skyscraper, to the charmingChristmas Cactus, spreading festive vibes with its blooms during the holiday season – the cactus family is a diverse bunch. Some formclusters, like a tight-knit group of friends, while others dangle elegantly from hangingbaskets, showcasing theirfleshy stemswith pride. It’s a vibrant community withdifferent types of cacticontributing their unique charm to the green tapestry.

These fascinatingspecies of cactihail from various corners of the globe. From theUnited Statesto South America, they’ve adapted to differentclimates, making them resilient additions to your indoor garden. Imagine having a piece of theArizonadesert or the South American plains right in your living room! Whether you’re a seasoned plant parent or a newbie to the world ofchlorophyll, thesehouseplantsoffer an intriguing peek into the marvels of the natural world.

Apart from being aesthetic marvels,cactialso 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 besttypes of cactus plantsyou 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 modifiedleavesin the form of spines)

Flower Color:Creamy white

Light:Full sun

Soil Needs:Well-draining soil

USDA Hardiness Zones:9 to 11

TheSaguaro 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. SaguaroCactiplay 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

BarrelCacti, belonging to the genusFerocactus, 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 iconicround cactusis easily recognizable and probably the most popular type used in drought-tolerant areas.

3. Prickly Pear Cactus(Opuntiaspp.)

Botanical Name:Opuntiaspp.

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

ThePrickly Pear Cactus, belonging to the genusOpuntia, is recognized by its flat, paddle-shapedstemscalled pads. Thesecactiare 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 epiphyticcactihave flattenedstemsand thrive in indirect light. Unlike many desertcacti, 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

TheGolden Barrel Cactus,Echinocactus grusonii, is a striking spherical cactusnativetoMexico. Known for its distinctive golden spines and compact form, it adds a bold touch to arid gardens. During spring, it producesyellow flowersnear the crown. This cactus thrives infull sunand well-draining soils. This beautiful, fast-growing cactus keeps itsrounded 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

FishhookCacti, members of the genusMammillaria, 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. Thesecactithrive 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

MoonCacti, scientifically known asGymnocalycium mihanovichii, are unique for their colorful, flattenedstems. Thesecactiare 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 inglochids(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 asOpuntia microdasys, is a small, pad-forming cactus covered in soft, hair-like spines known asglochids. Its resemblance to rabbit ears gives it its common name. During the spring, vibrantyellow flowersemerge, 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 (Stenocereuscactihave modifiedleavesin 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, orStenocereus thurberi, isnativeto theSonoran Desertand is named for its multiple verticalstemsthat 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 sunto partialshade

Soil Needs:Well-draining soil

USDA Hardiness Zones:10 to 11

Dragon Fruit Cactus, scientifically known asHylocereus 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 partialshadebut generally prefersfull 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, orLophophora williamsii, is a small, button-like cactus known for its psychoactive properties. It has low, spineless globularstemsand 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 namedHatiora gaertneri, is a charming, epiphytic cactus that produces colorful flowers in late winter or early spring. Unlike othercacti, it prefers indirect light and slightly acidic soil. Its flattenedstemsand 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, flatstems

Flower Color:White, fragrant

Light:Bright, indirect light

Soil Needs:Well-draining, rich soil

USDA Hardiness Zones:10 to 12

Queen of the Night, orEpiphyllum oxypetalum, is an epiphytic cactus known for its large, fragrant, night-blooming flowers. The flatstems, often mistaken forleaves, make it unique amongcacti. 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, orMammillaria 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-ribbedstems

Flower Color:White to cream

Light:Full sunto partialshade

Soil Needs:Well-draining, sandy soil

USDA Hardiness Zones:9 to 11

TheFairy Castle Cactus, scientifically known asAcanthocereus tetragonus, is a unique columnar cactus with multipleribsthat resemble castle turrets. This cactus produces night-blooming white to cream flowers and thrives infull sunto partialshade. Well-draining, sandy soil is crucial for its health.Fairy Castle cactusblooms 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, orMammillaria 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 asAstrophytum asterias, is a small, globular cactus recognized for its unique star-shaped patterns on its surface. It produces brightyellow flowerswith 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, elongatedstems

Flower Color:Pink to purple

Light:Full sun

Soil Needs:Well-draining, sandy soil

USDA Hardiness Zones:9 to 11

Ladyfinger Cactus, orMammillaria elongata, is a small, cylindrical cactus with elongatedstems. 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-shapedstems

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 asEpiphyllum anguliger, is an epiphytic cactus recognized for its unique, zigzag-shapedstemsresembling 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 cylindricalstems

Flower Color:Insignificant, if present

Light:Full sunto partialshade

Soil Needs:Well-draining soil

USDA Hardiness Zones:10 to 12

The Pencil Cactus, scientifically known asEuphorbia tirucalli, is not a true cactus but is often grouped withsucculentsdue to its appearance. It features green, pencil-likestemsand rarely produces insignificant flowers. Thriving infull sunto partialshade, 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

CrownCacti, members of the genusRebutia, are small, globularcactiknown for their colorful flowers and compact size. They bloom in spring with flowers in variousshades, including red,orange, and yellow. Thesecactithrive 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 toorange

Light:Full sun

Soil Needs:Well-draining, sandy soil

USDA Hardiness Zones:9 to 11

ParodiaCactibelonging to the genusParodiaare small to medium-sizedcactiwith distinctive ribbed or spherical shapes. They produce cheerful yellow toorangeflowers in the spring. Thriving in full sunlight and well-draining soil, thesecactiare suitable for rock gardens or containers.

23. HedgehogCactus (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

HedgehogCacti, members of the genusEchinocereus, are characterized by their cylindrical or spherical shape and vibrant flowers. Blooming in late spring, thesecactithrive 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, trailingstems

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 asAporocactus flagelliformis, is an epiphytic cactus with long, trailingstems. 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 cylindricalstems

Flower Color:White or cream

Light:Indirect light or filtered sunlight

Soil Needs:Well-draining, rich soil

USDA Hardiness Zones:10 to 12

MistletoeCacti, belonging to the genusRhipsalis, are epiphyticcactiknown for their flattened or cylindricalstems. They produce delicate white or cream flowers in spring. Preferring indirect light or filtered sunlight, thesecactithrive 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, orMammillaria plumosa, is a small, globose cactus distinguished by its soft, white spines that resemble feathers. It produces cream toyellow flowersin 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 toorange

Light:Full sun

Soil Needs:Well-draining, sandy soil

USDA Hardiness Zones:9 to 11

Silver Ball Cactus, orNotocactus scopa, is a small, spherical cactus recognized for its silver spines and vibrant yellow toorangeflowers 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 asCephalocereus 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. ArizonaBarrel 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 prominentribsand spines

Flower Color:Yellow toorange

Light:Full sun

Soil Needs:Well-draining, sandy soil

USDA Hardiness Zones:9 to 11

ArizonaBarrel Cactus, orFerocactus wislizeni, is a large, cylindrical cactusnativeto the deserts ofArizona. It features prominentribsand spines, providing it with a distinct appearance. In late spring to early summer, the cactus produces vibrant yellow toorangeflowers, 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. ThanksgivingCactus (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 flatstems

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

ThanksgivingCactus, scientifically known asSchlumbergera truncata, is an epiphytic cactus with flat, segmentedstems. Blooming in late fall to early winter, it produces vibrant flowers in variousshades, such as pink, red, and white. Unlike typicalcacti,ThanksgivingCactus thrives in bright, indirect light and requires well-draining, nutrient-rich soil.

Other Guides from Planet Natural:

How to Grow and Care for San Pedro Cactus (Complete Guide)

10 Easiest Succulents to Grow at Home