35 Most Unique Types Of Cactus Plants to Grow at Home

Are you looking for alluring indoor plants to bring greenery to your house but don’t have time to take care of them? Why not go for cactus? And no, I’m not talking about the huge, long, and spiky cactus; that’s just one type. 

There exist about a thousand types of cactus with around 1,750 known and unknown species. Want to know more about this majestic plant? Delve into this article and discover the 25 most unique types of cactus plants. 

35 Unique Indoor Cactaceae Plants

Surprisingly, the varieties of cactus plants are endless; these can be small, in breathtaking colors like the living stone, or huge and simply green like the saguaro. Here are some stunning spiky plants that will enhance your indoor decor:

Lithops are small and colorful succulent plants, also known as “living stones” or “flowering stones.” These gorgeous plants resemble small stones or pebbles and grow close to the ground, which is perfect camouflage for their habitat. 

Not only is the plant beautiful in itself, but it also produces flowers that look similar to daisies, usually in shades of white or yellow. 

Aspect	Details
Scientific name	Lithops spp
Common names	Living stones, Pebble plants, Flowering stones
Family	Aizoaceae
Origin	Southern Africa (Namibia, South Africa, Botswana)
Size	Stone-like, two fleshy, fused leaves with a cleft in the center; colors range from gray and green to brown, red, and purple.
Flowers	Daisy-like, yellow or white; blooms usually in autumn or winter.
Watering	Sparse; only water when the soil is completely dry.
Soil	Well-draining mix, often mixed with sand, grit, or pumice.
Temperature	Prefers warm temperatures (18–30°C or 65–85°F); protect from frost
Propagation	By seed (slow and requires patience) or division (only if multiple heads form).

The Thanksgiving Cactus is a popular holiday plant, majorly known for its vibrant flowers that bloom in late November, during Thanksgiving in the U.S. hence the name. 

These do well in a typical household condition in indirect sunlight during warmer seasons. 

Aspect	Details
Scientific name	Schlumbergera truncata
Common names	Thanksgiving Cactus, Holiday Cactus, Crab Cactus
Family	Cactaceae
Origin	Brazil, in tropical rainforests as an epiphyte (grows on trees or rocks)
Size	Reaches about 12 inches (30 cm), with a spread of up to 24 inches (60 cm).
Flowers	Tubular, vibrant colors like pink, red, white, orange, or purple; blooms from the ends of stems
Watering	Moderate; allow the top inch of soil to dry between watering
Soil	Well-draining soil (cactus/succulent mix) enriched with organic matter
Temperature	Prefers 18–24°C (65–75°F); avoid exposure to frost
Propagation	By stem cuttings (let segments callus before planting in moist soil)

The Two-Spined Cactus is also known as the “Beehive Cactus,” because of its small, round, and distinct species. These grow quite slowly so you won’t have to repot it several times, but ensure that you’re using well-drained soil with less direct sunlight. 

This is another flowering cactus with green, small, and cylindrical stems and white spikes.  

Aspect	Details
Scientific name	Coryphantha sulcata
Common names	Two-Spined Cactus, Beehive Cactus
Family	Cactaceae
Origin	Texas and northeastern Mexico; grows in arid, rocky grasslands and scrublands
Size	Typically grows to 6–8 cm (2.5–3 inches) in height and diameter
Flowers	Bright yellow with red or orange centers; blooms in late spring to summer
Watering	Low; allow the soil to dry completely between watering.
Soil	Well-draining, sandy or rocky soil
Temperature	Prefers warm climates; can tolerate brief frost but should be protected from prolonged freezing
Propagation	By seed or offsets (when present)

Also known as the Spring Cactus, this plant is valued for its vibrant blooms, which typically appear during Easter or spring, thus justifying its name. Native to Brazil, this is a small and compact plant that is suitable for pots and indoor gardening. 

Aspect	Details
Scientific name	Hatiora gaertneri
Common names	Easter Cactus, Spring Cactus
Family	Cactaceae
Origin	Brazil
Size	6-12 inches tall, 1-2 feet wide
Flowers	Yes, red, pink, orange, and white flowers.
Watering	Water when the top inch of soil feels dry; reduce watering post-bloom
Soil	Well-draining cactus or succulent mix
Temperature	60–70°F (15–21°C); avoid drafts and extreme heat
Propagation	Stem cuttings; allow cuttings to callous before planting

The mistletoe cactus is quite an unusual plant known for its long, slender stem. A native to tropical rainforests, this is the only cactus species that occurs outside the New World. 

One fun fact about the plant is that it’s a medicinal and poisonous plant! All parts of the plant contain a toxin called ochratoxin that causes seizures, dizziness, nausea, diarrhea, etc. Despite that, some clinical studies are now being done on the efficacy of mistletoe for cancer treatments.

Aspect	Details
Scientific name	Rhipsalis baccifera
Common names	Mistletoe Cactus
Family	Cactaceae
Origin	Tropical rainforests; found in the Americas, Africa, and Sri Lanka
Size	6 feet tall and 2 feet wide
Flowers	Small, white to pale green blooms
Watering	Water when the top 1-2 inches of soil are dry; prefers consistent moisture but not soggy soil
Soil	Well-draining potting mix; a blend of orchid bark, peat, and perlite works well
Temperature	60–80°F (16–27°C); keep away from cold drafts and frost
Propagation	Easily propagated from stem cuttings; allow the cut end to callous before planting

This unique and beautiful plant species is known for its fluffy and feathery appearance. These plants have a ball structure and stay small, grounded to the pot. This is a slow-growing cactus and is a low-maintenance indoor plant. 

Aspect	Details
Scientific name	Mammillaria plumosa
Common names	Feather Cactus
Family	Cactaceae
Origin	Native to northeastern Mexico
Size	3” (8 cm) tall and 16” (40.6 cm) wide
Flowers	Small, white to pale yellow blooms appear in late summer to fall
Watering	Water sparingly, allowing the soil to dry out completely between watering; reduce watering in winter
Soil	Well-draining cactus mix; add sand or perlite to improve drainage
Temperature	Thrives in warm temperatures (70–80°F or 21–27°C); tolerates down to 40°F (4°C) when dry
Propagation	Propagate by separating offsets (pups) or from seeds
Toxicity	Non-toxic to humans and pets.

Moon Cactus is one of the most beautiful and vibrant types of cactus plants. It consists of two cacti: the colorful top, which is called Gymnocalycium mihanovichii, and the green rootstock, called Hylocereus or similar. The grafting is essential because the top cactus cannot produce enough energy on its own. 

Aspect	Details
Scientific name	Gymnocalycium mihanovichii (typically grafted onto Hylocereus or other rootstock)
Common names	Moon Cactus
Family	Cactaceae
Origin	Native to South America (mainly Paraguay, Argentina, and Brazil)
Size	1-2 inches wide
Flowers	Rare when grafted; small, pale pink to white blooms in ideal conditions
Watering	Moderate; allow soil to dry completely between watering
Soil	Well-draining cactus or succulent mix
Temperature	Prefers warm conditions; minimum temperature of 10°C (50°F)
Propagation	Through grafting (top cactus cannot survive on its own due to lack of chlorophyll)
Toxicity	Non-toxic to humans and pets.

Sand Dollar is a unique cactus, native to northeastern Mexico and is known for its smooth, round body that somewhat resembles a sand dollar with a distinct white pattern on its surface. 

This is a perfect indoor plant, but you’ll need to repot it every 2-3 years when it outgrows its pot.

Aspect	Details
Scientific name	Astrophytum asterias
Common names	Sand Dollar Cactus, Star Cactus, Bishop’s Cap Cactus
Family	Cactaceae
Origin	Native to northeastern Mexico
Size	6 – 12 inches
Flowers	Large, yellow flowers appear in late spring or summer, often blooming from the center
Watering	Water sparingly; let the soil dry out completely between watering. Water more during the growing season (spring and summer), but reduce watering in winter when it goes dormant
Soil	Well-draining cactus or succulent mix; it needs excellent drainage to prevent root rot
Temperature	Thrives in warm temperatures (ideal 21–30°C / 70–85°F). It is not frost-tolerant, so protect it from temperatures below 5°C (41°F)
Propagation	Typically propagated by seeds or grafting (the cactus may be grafted onto a faster-growing rootstock)
Toxicity	Non-toxic to humans and pets.

Interesting name, ain’t it? The Fairy Castle cactus grows more in length than in width. With its unique shape, the cactus looks like a branching castle, making it a popular ornamental plant. This cactus is easy to grow and can thrive both indoors and outdoors in suitable climates.

Aspect	Details
Scientific name	Acanthocereus tetragonus
Common names	Fairy Castle Cactus, Triangle Cactus
Family	Cactaceae
Origin	Native to the southern U.S., Mexico, and the Caribbean
Size	Can grow up to 1–2 meters (3–6 feet) tall, with a spread of about 30 cm (12 inches)
Flowers	Large, white or pink flowers that bloom at night, typically in summer
Watering	Water moderately; allow the soil to dry out completely between watering
Soil	A well-draining cactus mix or sandy, rocky soil
Temperature	Thrives in warm conditions; minimum temperature of 10°C (50°F)
Propagation	Easily propagated by stem cuttings or seeds.
Toxicity	Non-toxic to humans and pets.

Rat Tail cactus is a weird-looking plant known for its striking, long trailing stems that literally resemble a rat’s tail. This is one of the few hanging cacti, which is a perfect option for indoor decorations. 

Unlike the usual slow-growing cactus, this one displays fast growth, with flowers that often bloom in the late afternoon or evening and remain open through the night. 

Aspect	Details
Scientific name	Aporocactus flagelliformis (formerly Disocactus flagelliformis)
Common names	Rat Tail Cactus, Orchid Cactus, Fishbone Cactus
Family	Cactaceae
Origin	Native to Mexico
Size	The plant can spread up to 1–2 meters (3–6 feet) in length when mature
Flowers	Large, tubular, bright pink, red, or purple flowers that bloom in the spring and summer, often at night
Watering	Water moderately, allowing the soil to dry completely between watering
Soil	Well-draining cactus mix, with added sand or perlite for better
Temperature	Prefers warm temperatures; minimum temperature of 10°C (50°F)
Propagation	Easily propagated by stem cuttings or seeds
Toxicity	Non-toxic to humans and pets.

Peanut cactus is also known as Chamaecereus silvestrii and is a low-growing, clumping cactus that is popular for its easy care and vibrant flowers. It got its name from its small peanut-resembling stems. To grow this plant efficiently, water it sparsely and keep it in bright sunlight. 

Aspect	Details
Scientific name	Echinopsis chamaecereus
Common names	Peanut Cactus
Family	Cactaceae
Origin	Native to Argentina
Size	Typically grows up to 15 cm (6 inches) tall and spreads up to 30 cm (12 inches)
Flowers	Produces bright orange, red, or pink funnel-shaped flowers in late spring or summer
Watering	Water moderately; allow the soil to dry out completely between watering.
Soil	Well-draining cactus or succulent mix
Temperature	Thrives in warm climates but can tolerate temperatures down to -6°C (20°F) for short periods
Propagation	Easily propagated by offsets or stem cuttings
Toxicity	Non-toxic to humans and pets.

Easter Lily cactus is super popular among gardeners for its large, vibrant, trumpet-shaped flowers that bloom in spring or summer. This plant thrives in full sun, so if you’re placing it indoors, make sure it’s in a bright location with a well-draining cactus mix. 

Aspect	Details
Scientific name	Echinopsis oxygona
Common names	Easter Lily Cactus, Hedgehog Cactus
Family	Cactaceae
Origin	Native to South America (Argentina, Brazil, Uruguay, and Paraguay)
Size	Individual stems grow 10–25 cm (4–10 inches) tall and 10–12 cm (4–5 inches) wide
Flowers	Large, trumpet-shaped flowers (up to 20 cm / 8 inches long) in pink, white, or lavender; bloom lasts about 1–2 days
Watering	Water sparingly; allow soil to dry completely between watering.
Soil	Well-draining cactus or succulent mix
Temperature	Thrives in warm climates, but tolerates temperatures down to -6°C (20°F)
Propagation	Propagates easily by offsets or seeds
Toxicity	Non-toxic to humans and pets.

Torch Cactus is a vibrant, fast-growing plant admired for its tall stems and spectacular flowers. This plant comes in various varieties of huge and vibrant flowers, making it popular for both collectors and gardeners. It thrives in full to partial sunlight and low humidity. Since they are drought-tolerant, you can allow the soil to dry completely before watering them again. 

Aspect	Details
Scientific name	Echinopsis spp. or Trichocereus spp.
Common names	Torch Cactus, Hedgehog Cactus
Family	Cactaceae
Origin	Native to South America (Argentina, Bolivia, Peru, and Uruguay)
Size	Can grow 30–90 cm (1–3 feet) tall, depending on the species
Flowers	Large, funnel-shaped flowers (up to 15–20 cm / 6–8 inches in diameter) in various colors
Watering	Water moderately during the growing season; allow soil to dry between watering
Soil	Well-draining cactus or succulent mix
Temperature	Thrives in warm climates but can tolerate temperatures down to -9°C (15°F)
Propagation	Easily propagated by stem cuttings or seeds
Toxicity	Non-toxic to humans and pets.

This Cactus species has spines that act as a natural defense against some herbivores and reflect sunlight, helping to reduce the loss of moisture. The name of this Cactaceae plant describes its physical structure that ironically looks like a spiky teddy bear with twin stems growing in opposite directions on a single.

Aspect	Details
Scientific name	Cylindropuntia bigelovii
Common names	Teddy Bear Cholla, Jumping Cholla
Family	Cactaceae
Origin	Southwestern United States (California, Arizona) and northern Mexico
Size	Grows up to 1.5 meters (5 feet) tall
Flowers	Small, greenish-yellow flowers bloom in spring, followed by spiny, cylindrical fruits
Watering	Drought-tolerant; minimal watering required
Soil	Well-draining sandy or rocky soil
Temperature	Thrives in hot, dry climates; tolerates temperatures as low as -12°C (10°F)
Propagation	Propagates easily by detached stem segments
Toxicity	Non-toxic, but the sharp spines can cause irritation

Prickly Pear is one of the most versatile types of cactus plants, known for its flat, paddle-shaped segments called pads. These are edible fruits with beautiful flowers. This cactus thrives in arid and semi-arid climates and is valued for its ornamental, ecological, and culinary uses.

Aspect	Details
Scientific name	Opuntia spp.
Common names	Prickly Pear Cactus, Nopal (pads), Tuna (fruit)
Family	Cactaceae
Origin	Native to the Americas, especially deserts and grasslands
Size	Ranges from 30 cm (1 foot) to 5 meters (16 feet) tall, depending on species
Flowers	Bright flowers in shades of yellow, orange, red, or pink, blooming in spring or summer
Watering	Drought-tolerant; water sparingly
Soil	Well-draining sandy or rocky soil
Temperature	Tolerates a wide range, from hot deserts to cold climates (down to -12°C / 10°F)
Propagation	Propagates easily by pads (cuttings) or seeds
Toxicity	Non-toxic, but the sharp spines can cause irritation

Miniature Saguaro is one of the few cactus types that needs to be watered thoroughly during the growing season. This iconic large cactus of the Sonoran Desert is a small columnar cactus that mimics the Saguaro’s shape and structure. These types of cactus plants feature upright, ribbed, columnar growth and spines, making them excellent choices for those seeking the Saguaro aesthetic. 

Aspect	Details
Scientific name	Echinopsis terscheckii, Trichocereus spachianus, Stenocereus pruinosus
Common names	Miniature Saguaro, Dwarf Saguaro, Argentine Saguaro
Family	Cactaceae
Origin	South America, particularly Argentina, Bolivia, and parts of Brazil
Size	30–90 cm (1–3 feet) indoors; larger outdoors
Flowers	Large, showy, and often fragrant; typically white or pink, blooming at night
Watering	Drought-tolerant; allow soil to dry completely between watering
Soil	Well-draining cactus mix or sandy soil
Temperature	Thrives in warm climates but tolerates short periods of frost (-6°C/20°F)
Propagation	Easily propagated from seeds or offsets (if present)
Toxicity	Non-toxic but spines can cause irritation

This stunning little cactus plant has colorful spines and vibrant flowers; its ornamental appeal and relatively easy-care nature make it a favorite among collectors and gardeners. 

The large funnel-shaped flower is one of the most striking features of the plant, and due to its eye-catching appeal, this species is often used in cactus shows. 

Aspect	Details
Scientific name	Echinocereus rigidissimus subs. rubrispinus
Common names	Rainbow Hedgehog Cactus
Family	Cactaceae
Origin	Mexico (Sonoran and Chihuahuan Deserts)
Size	Typically grows 15–25 cm (6–10 inches) tall and 5–7 cm (2–3 inches) in diameter
Flowers	Large, magenta to pink blooms, up to 10 cm (4 inches) wide, appearing in spring or summer
Watering	Drought-tolerant; water sparingly
Soil	Well-draining cactus or succulent mix
Temperature	Thrives in warm climates; hardy to -6°C (20°F)
Propagation	Propagated by seeds or offsets (if present)
Toxicity	Non-toxic, but spines can cause irritation

This is a charming globe-shaped cactus covered with dense white spines that look like fine hairs and a woolly appearance. One of the unique traits in the appearance of this plant is the creation of a small halo of beautiful flowers that bloom around its crown. Over time, you’ll see clusters of multiple globes in the pot, creating a striking display that is perfect for indoor plant decoration.

Aspect	Details
Scientific name	Mammillaria hahniana
Common names	Old Lady Cactus
Family	Cactaceae
Origin	Central Mexico
Size	Typically, grows 10–15 cm (4–6 inches) tall and wide
Flowers	Pink to purple, forming a crown around the cactus’ top, blooming in spring
Watering	Drought-tolerant; water sparingly
Soil	Well-draining cactus or succulent mix
Temperature	Thrives in warm climates; hardy to -6°C (20°F) with protection
Propagation	Easily propagated by offsets or seeds

The Ric Rac cactus is also known as the Fishbone cactus because of its zigzag patterns resembling a fish’s bone. Unlike other types of cactus, that produces spectacular, fragrant, white to yellow flowers that bloom at night, making it a standout in any collection. This cactus prefers bright and indirect light. Try to avoid harsh direct sunlight with well-drained, organic-rich mix. 

Aspect	Details
Scientific name	Epiphyllum anguliger
Common names	Ric Rac Cactus, Fishbone Cactus, Zig Zag Cactus, Orchid Cactus
Family	Cactaceae
Origin	Mexico (tropical rainforests)
Size	Stems can grow up to 30–60 cm (12–24 inches) long
Flowers	Large, fragrant, white or cream blooms, often with a yellow center, blooming at night
Watering	Moderate; keep soil slightly moist but not waterlogged during growing season
Soil	Well-draining mix rich in organic matter, such as orchid or cactus mix
Temperature	Thrives in warm, humid environments; prefers temperatures above 10°C (50°F)
Propagation	Easily propagated through stem cuttings

It’s almost sinister how the cactus’ long trailing stems covered with fine and soft spines closely resemble a monkey’s tail. This cactus grows in warm, tropical, and semi-arid environments through watering. 

The Monkey Tail cactus is mainly popular for its ornamental value and dramatic, tube-shaped flowers that bloom in vibrant colors, usually in the late spring or summer.

Aspect	Details
Scientific name	Cleistocactus colademononis
Common names	Monkey Tail Cactus
Family	Cactaceae
Origin	Andes Mountains, South America
Size	Stems can grow up to 1.5–2 meters (5–6 feet) long
Flowers	Bright, tubular flowers in shades of red, orange, or yellow, appearing in spring or summer
Watering	Water when the soil is dry, allowing it to dry out completely between watering
Soil	Well-draining cactus or succulent mix
Temperature	Prefers temperatures between 18–30°C (65–85°F), but can tolerate brief drops to 10°C (50°F).
Propagation	Easily propagated by stem cuttings or seeds

This is a popular one among cactus collectors, known for its’ striking “cap” or “star” shape structure, thus resembling its name. Bishop’s cap is one of the few cactus species that lacks spines and has a smooth, abstract look.  The unusual appearance and the low-maintenance nature make this small cactus unique and a perfect choice for indoor decoration. 

Aspect	Details
Scientific name	Astrophytum myriostigma
Common names	Bishop’s Cap Cactus
Family	Cactaceae
Origin	Northern Mexico, particularly the Chihuahuan Desert
Size	Typically grows 30–60 cm (12–24 inches) tall and 15–25 cm (6–10 inches) in diameter
Flowers	Yellow, funnel-shaped flowers that bloom in spring or summer
Watering	Drought-tolerant; water sparingly during the growing season
Soil	Well-draining cactus or succulent mix
Temperature	Prefers temperatures between 20–30°C (68–86°F); can tolerate brief cold spells
Propagation	Easily propagated by seeds or offsets

This is another cactus plant known for its stunning bright red and orange cup-shaped flowers that bloom in spring. With red and yellow spikes, which is popularly seen in the rock gardens, desert landscapes, and xeriscaping because of its low water requirements and striking appearance.

Aspect	Details
Scientific name	Echinocereus triglochidiatus
Common names	Claret Cup Cactus
Family	Cactaceae
Origin	Southwestern United States (Arizona, New Mexico, Texas) and northern Mexico
Size	Typically grows 30–60 cm (12–24 inches) tall, with each stem 5–10 cm (2–4 inches) wide
Flowers	Bright red to orange, funnel-shaped flowers, blooming in spring
Watering	Drought-tolerant; water sparingly during the growing season
Soil	Well-draining cactus or succulent mix
Temperature	Prefers hot, dry conditions; hardy to around -10°C (14°F) when established
Propagation	Easily propagated by offsets or seeds

This is one of the most distinct types of Cacti, with a unique appearance characterized by a turban-shaped cap on the top of its stem. The spikes of the plant have a wool-like structure with a bright flower above it. Turk’s cap cactus thrives in bright, direct sunlight, thoroughly water it but prevent consistently moist soil to avoid the root from rotting. 

Aspect	Details
Scientific name	Melocactus intortus
Common names	Turk’s Cap Cactus
Family	Cactaceae
Origin	Caribbean, Florida, Mexico
Size	Typically grows 30–50 cm (12–20 inches) tall and 15–25 cm (6–10 inches) wide
Flowers	Bright pink, funnel-shaped flowers that appear at the cap (cephalium) in summer
Watering	Water sparingly during the growing season and allow the soil to dry out
Soil	Well-draining cactus or succulent mix
Temperature	Prefers warm temperatures (20–30°C/68–86°F) but can tolerate brief drops to 10°C (50°F)
Propagation	Can be propagated by seeds, though it’s slow-growing

Also known as African Milk Tree, this striking plant is a succulent but is often mistaken for a cactus due to its upright structure. Cathedral cactus can grow up to 6-8 feet tall in bright and indirect sunlight and low humidity. These are normally used as decorative indoor plants or as a striking focal point in xeriscaping or desert-style gardens.

Aspect	Details
Scientific name	Euphorbia trigona
Common names	Cathedral Cactus, African Milk Tree
Family	Euphorbiaceae
Origin	Central Africa
Size	Grows up to 2–3 meters (6–9 feet) in height when mature
Flowers	No Flowers
Watering	No flower appearance
Soil	Well-draining soil or cactus mix
Temperature	Prefers warm conditions; avoid exposure to frost
Propagation	Easily propagated through cuttings
Toxicity	Toxic to humans and pets if ingested; sap can irritate skin and eyes.

This plant is what you might imagine whenever someone says “cactus.” You can mostly see this type of cactus in Arizona, California, and Mexico. Saguaro cactus can grow up to 40-60 feet and produce large, white, and waxy flowers that bloom at night. 

You can even see some edible red fruits on this cactus that ripen in the summer, traditionally used by Native Americans.

Aspect	Details
Scientific name	Carnegiea gigantea
Common names	Saguaro Cactus
Family	Cactaceae
Origin	Sonoran Desert (Arizona, California, and Mexico)
Size	Can grow up to 40–60 feet (12–18 meters) tall and weigh several tons
Flowers	White, waxy flowers bloom in late spring and early summer
Watering	Minimal; relies on rainwater in its natural habitat
Soil	Well-draining, sandy or rocky soil
Temperature	Thrives in hot, arid climates; intolerant to frost
Propagation	Grows from seeds; rarely propagated by cuttings
Toxicity	Non-toxic to humans and animals

Spiny Pincushion cactus was first discovered in 1838 and is another species of flowering plant. They prefer low humidity and full, filtered sun with occasional watering. Mammillaria Spinosissima is a tough plant and can tolerate a variety of conditions and diseases, but be careful with this one! The spikes of the plant are not toxic, but their hardness can definitely hurt if they prick you. 

Aspect	Details
Scientific name	Mammillaria spinosissima
Common names	Spiny Pincushion Cactus, Cactus spinosissimus
Family	Cactaceae
Native habitat	Native to central Mexico.
Size	12-20 in. tall (30-50 cm) and 3-4 in. wide (7-10 cm).
Flowers	Pink, funnel-shaped flowers that bloom in early to mid-summer
Watering	Water moderately when in growth
Soil	Well-drained, acid, alkaline, and neutral soil.
Temperature	Between 50° and 75° F(10° and 24° Celsius)
Propagation	Propagate by seed
Toxicity	Non-toxic to humans and animals

This small cactus is mainly popular for its bright orange and red flowers, it mainly grows in rocky areas at high altitudes and is one of the most extraordinary indoor plants for its visual appeal and easy-to-care nature. 

The thick layer of short, dense, and white spikes create an illusion of a small fur ball, which protects it from the harsh sun and predators. 

Aspect	Details
Scientific name	Rebutia Muscula
Common names	Little Mouse Crown Cactus, White-haired Crown, Little Mouse, Orange Snowball
Family	Cactaceae
Native habitat	Native to Bolivia
Size	2-3 inches (5-7 cm) in diameter; 6 inches in spread
Flowers	Flowers with vivid orange to red hues
Watering	Water thoroughly in the growing season when the soil completely dries out
Soil	Well-draining soil
Temperature	prefers cooler temperatures in the winter (around 50°F or 10°C)
Propagation	Can be propagated from offsets
Toxicity	Non-toxic to humans and animals

This small cactus is one of the most beautiful varieties of all, just like the little mouse cactus, snowball also has small and white spikes crowding the flesh of the plant making it look like a snowball. The head of the cactus is covered with small flowers forming a beautiful halo on it. 

Aspect	Details
Scientific name	Mammillaria candida
Common names	Snowball Pincushion Cactus
Family	Cactaceae
Native habitat	Mexico
Size	12 inches in height (30 cm) and 8 inches in diameter (20 cm).
Flowers	Funnel-shaped rose-pink flowers
Watering	Water moderately during the growing season; allow soil to dry completely between waterings.
Soil	Requires well-draining cactus or succulent mix. Ideal pH is slightly acidic to neutral
Temperature	Ideal temperature is 70°F
Propagation	Propagate by seeds or offsets
Toxicity	Non-toxic to humans and animals

Like many other desert plants, Tom Thumb is also highly drought-tolerant as it stores water in its stem, and thus requires occasional watering. Native to the upland of Argentina, Tom Thumb cactus is easy to grow and produces striking, yellow flowers in spring making it perfect for your rock garden and indoor arrangements. 

Aspect	Details
Scientific name	Parodia mammulosa
Common names	Tom Thumb Cactus, Lemon Ball Cactus
Family	Cactaceae
Native habitat	Native to Argentina, Uruguay, and southern Brazil.
Size	2-4 inches (5-10 cm) in height and about 3-5 inches (7-12 cm) wide.
Flowers	bright yellow funnel-shaped flowers
Watering	Water sparingly; allow the soil to dry out completely between waterings.
Soil	Loam, Sand, and well-drained soil
Temperature	50–77°F (10–25°C)
Propagation	Propagate from seeds
Toxicity	Tom Thumb harbors bufadienolides—toxins that can wreak havoc on your cat’s system.

Unlike a typical cactus plant, the Golden Rat Tail grows quite rapidly hanging or creeping. The beautiful salmon-pink flowers adore the whole plant, thus standing true to its name.  

If you’re growing the cactus, make sure to give it full but filtered sunlight along with moderate watering. As an important advice, keep the plant pests-free and they can last for years! 

Aspect	Details
Scientific name	Cleistocactus winteri
Common names	Golden Rat Tail Cactus, Borzicactus aureispinus, Cleistocactus aureispinus
Family	Cactaceae
Native habitat	Native to Bolivia
Size	5 feet (1.5 meters) long, 3 feet wide (90 cm)
Flowers	bright, vivid orange to salmon-pink tubular flowers
Watering	Infrequent watering
Soil	Loam, Sand, and well-drained soil
Temperature	70–100°F (21–38°C).
Propagation	Done through stem cuttings
Toxicity	Non-toxic to humans and animals

Scarlet Ball loves to be close to the sunlight, so if you’re growing one place it in the sunny corner of your house, preferably in fresh air. This spherical plant produces small and beautiful funnel-shaped flowers on its head which only last for 1–3 days each throughout the season. 

Although it might look like the soil is drying up and your cactus needs water, trust me it doesn’t! To precent your cactus dying from root rot, water it occasionally. 

Aspect	Details
Scientific name	Parodia haselbergii
Common names	Scarlet Ball, Notocactus haselbergii
Family	Cactaceae
Native habitat	Mexico
Size	6 inches tall and 4 inches wide
Flowers	Funnel-shaped flowers in red or orange color.
Watering	Water moderately, about every 10 days in spring, every 6–7 days in summer
Soil	Loam, Sand, and well-drained soil
Temperature	70°F and 85°F (21°C to 29°C)
Propagation	Propagate by cutting and seeds
Toxicity	Non-toxic to humans and animals

This fascinating cactus instantly draws the attention of the whole room with its unique cotton ball-like structure. They are slow to grow and produce breathtaking pink, or white flowers over the soft spine throughout the season.  

Whether you’re a seasoned succulent enthusiast or a curious beginner, the Mammillaria Thimble Cactus is a great choice for your collection.

Aspect	Details
Scientific name	Mammillaria Gracilis
Common names	Mammillaria thimble, Thimble Cactus
Family	Cactaceae
Native habitat	Mexico
Size	Heads grow up to 2″ (5 cm) wide each
Flowers	Bears’ beautiful off-white to yellow flowers
Watering	Water only if the cactus looks wilted. Always allow the soil to dry between each watering.
Soil	Loam, Sand, and well-drained soil
Temperature	60–80°F (18–29°C)
Propagation	Propagation by offsets
Toxicity	Non-toxic to humans and animals

This particular succulent grows long in the shape of a tower, hence its cute nickname. Also known as Gold Lace Cactus, they are completely beginner-friendly as they don’t need much love and care to thrive! 

All you need to remember is to give them plenty of sunlight and minimum water, as they are drought-tolerant. Due to their slow growth, they don’t need repotting that often. 

Aspect	Details
Scientific name	Mammillaria Elongata
Common names	Ladyfinger Cactus, Gold Lace Cactus
Family	Cactaceae
Native habitat	Mexico
Size	Up to 4-6 in. tall (10-15 cm) and 12 in. wide (30 cm).
Flowers	Bell-shaped, pale yellow or tinged pink flowers
Watering	Water moderately when in growth. Make sure you let the soil dry out between waterings.
Soil	Loam, Sand, and well-drained soil
Temperature	68–73°F (20–23°C) in the summer and 50–53°F (10–12°C) in the winter.
Propagation	Propagate by seed, or by offset
Toxicity	Non-toxic to humans and animals

One of the most popular choices for indoor and rock gardens, the Golden Barrel cactus can easily be identified due to its distinct golden spikes. Although they might look similar to other cactus like Mammillaria Spinosissima, the most fascinating fact about them is, if taken care of properly, they can live up to 100 years!

Aspect	Details
Scientific name	Echinocactus grusonii
Common names	Golden Barrel Cactus, Mother-in-law’s Seat, Golden Ball Cactus
Family	Cactaceae
Native habitat	Mexican states of Querétaro and Hidalgo
Size	Upto 2 ft. tall (60 cm) and 2-3 ft. wide (60-90 cm).
Flowers	Small, bright yellow flowers
Watering	Water regularly when in growth; let the soil dry out between waterings.
Soil	Loam, Sand, and well-drained soil
Temperature	20 to 38 ℃ (68 to 100.4 ℉)
Propagation	Propagate by seed
Toxicity	Non-toxic to humans and animals

The brain cactus is not just captivating but also looks like something straight out of a fantasy novel. The wavy and spiny structure of this cactus gives it the sinister look of a brain. 

Stenocactus Multicostatus is a great choice for Halloween decoration or if you’re looking to give a gothic look to your home. 

Aspect	Details
Scientific name	Stenocactus Multicostatus
Common names	Brain Cactus
Family	Cactaceae
Native habitat	Mexico
Size	3 to 5 inches high; 3 to 6 spread
Flowers	Small pink bell-shaped blooms
Watering	Water sparingly; allow soil to dry completely between waterings.
Soil	Loam, Sand, well-draining cactus or succulent mix.
Temperature	Maintain a warm environment, 70 °F to 100 °F (21 °C to 38 °C) during the day.
Propagation	Propagated from seeds or offsets.
Toxicity	Non-toxic to humans and animals

Taking Care of Your Cactus Plant 

Cactus are mainly popular for their traits of a strong plant that needs relatively less love and care. So if you’re too lazy or busy to be taking care of a plant but still want one, then cactus is the perfect plant you should go for. 

A cactus can survive for months without any fresh water, and they are slow-growing, so you won’t need to repot them every once in a while. But if it’s your first time taking care of a cactus, note down these useful tips ~ 

1. Watering needs: Cactus don’t need regular watering; since they store water in their leaves and stems, they can survive without it for months! So do not worry if you see the soil of your planned drawing up because this is how it works! Make sure to wet only the top layer of soil; this prevents the roots from rotting away.

2. Sunlight: The cacti are built to survive even the hottest conditions without much care, so place them in the brightest part of the room and give them as much direct sunlight as you can.

3. Temperature: Cactus can generally survive temperature fluctuations, but it’s best to lay off watering during winter and help them protect from freezing temperatures.

4. Toxicity: Since most cacti have long spines, they require a certain level of caution. Some species of cactus can become toxic if the spine stings you, so it’s best to keep them out of the reach of children and animals.

5. Extra love and care: If you want to give your cactus extra love and care, the most you can do is fertilize monthly during the summer.

Final Words 

The cactus is truly a mesmerizing plant with countless species of mind-blowing shapes, sizes, and colors. Whether you’re decorating your home, landscaping a garden, or building a collection, there’s a cactus for every space and style! 

So what are you waiting for? Now that you know about these uniquely different cacti and how to care for them, what are you waiting for? Go get your spiky friend today!