The Ultimate Guide to Cacti: Care, Types, and Habitats

February 27, 2025

Cacti are some of the most resilient and fascinating plants in the world. Whether you’re a seasoned plant enthusiast or a beginner looking for a low-maintenance addition to your home, cacti are a great choice! In this guide, we’ll explore different types of cacti, how to care for them, and how their natural habitats influence their needs.

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What Makes a Cactus a Cactus?

Cacti belong to the Cactaceae family and are a unique group of succulents recognized by their areoles—small, cushion-like structures from which spines, flowers, and new growth emerge. Unlike other succulents, only cacti have these specialized areoles. They have adapted to survive in harsh, dry environments by storing water in their stems and minimizing water loss through modified leaves (spines).

How Cacti Fit into the World of Succulents

Succulents, including cacti, are divided based on how they store water and their growth habits. Here’s how cacti fit into the broader succulent family:

1. Succulent Classification

• Leaf Succulents

– Store water in thick leaves (e.g., Jade Plant, Aloe).

• Stem Succulents (Cacti!)

– Store water in swollen stems and have spines instead of leaves (e.g., Saguaro, Barrel Cactus).

• Root Succulents

– Store water in underground tubers or swollen roots (e.g., certain Dioscorea species).

2. Cactus Growth Forms

Cacti come in a variety of shapes and sizes:

• Columnar Cacti

– Grow tall and upright (e.g., Saguaro, Cereus).

• Globular Cacti

– Round and compact (e.g., Barrel Cactus, Golden Ball Cactus).

• Clumping Cacti

– Grow in dense clusters (e.g., Mammillaria, Hedgehog Cactus).

• Epiphytic Cacti

– Grow in trees or on rocks in tropical environments (e.g., Christmas Cactus, Orchid Cactus).

Cactus Habitats & How They Affect Care

Not all cacti come from hot, arid deserts! Different species have evolved to thrive in a range of environments, which impacts their care needs.

Desert Cacti

(e.g., Saguaro, Prickly Pear, Barrel Cactus) – These cacti thrive in full sun, require well-draining soil, and need very little water. They are highly drought-tolerant but prone to rot if overwatered.

Tropical Cacti

(e.g., Christmas Cactus, Orchid Cactus) – Unlike their desert cousins, these cacti prefer indirect light, higher humidity, and regular watering. They naturally grow in tree canopies and absorb moisture from the air.

Mountain & High-Altitude Cacti

(e.g., Old Man Cactus, some Opuntia species) – These species endure cooler temperatures and occasional frost, making them more adaptable to temperate climates. They still require good drainage but can tolerate occasional dips in temperature.

Knowing your cactus’s native habitat will help you replicate its ideal growing conditions!

Essential Cactus Care Tips

Light

Most cacti love bright, direct sunlight. Place them in a sunny window or under a grow light if indoors.

Watering

Less is more! Water thoroughly but allow the soil to dry completely before watering again. Overwatering is the most common cause of cactus problems.

Soil

Use a well-draining cactus mix to prevent root rot.

Temperature & Humidity

Cacti prefer warm temperatures (65-85°F) and low humidity. Avoid placing them in overly damp environments.

Fertilizing

Feed with a diluted cactus fertilizer during the growing season (spring and summer) for best results.

Common Cactus Problems & Solutions

Even though cacti are hardy, they can still face some common issues. Here’s how to fix them:

Overwatering & Root Rot

– If your cactus is mushy or discolored, it may be overwatered. Let the soil dry completely before watering again and ensure your pot has drainage holes.

Sunburn

– White or brown patches on the plant can indicate too much direct sun. Gradually acclimate your cactus to bright light or provide some shade during the hottest part of the day.

Pests (Mealybugs & Spider Mites)

– Small white cottony spots or webbing? Treat with insecticidal soap.

Shriveling & Wrinkling

– This can be a sign of underwatering. Give your cactus a thorough soak and ensure it's getting enough water, especially during active growth seasons.

Etiolation (Stretching & Weak Growth)

– If your cactus is growing tall and thin instead of compact and sturdy, it's not getting enough light. Move it to a brighter spot.

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Start Your Cactus Collection!

Cacti are the perfect addition to any plant collection, offering beauty and resilience with minimal care. Whether you love the towering elegance of columnar cacti or the compact charm of globular varieties, there’s a cactus for everyone!

Visit Scott’s Nursery to explore our selection of cacti and succulents and bring home a spiky new friend today!

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