Cacti is the general term for succulents that have grown spines to adapt to their dry environments. Cacti don’t truly have leaves or branches. They instead grow areoles, the bumps in which spines and flowers grow from. Spines actually help cacti retain water! They decrease the air flow around the plant to trap moisture in. Spines also collect dew, providing an extra mode of water storage! Though it may be hard to believe, spines actually create shade for cacti as well. Each one casts a tiny shadow, and considering how many spines there can be on one plant, it really adds up!

While there are over 1750 species of cacti, all with slightly different needs, in general, they fall under these care instructions: lots of sunlight and little water. Potting requirements include a cactus specific mix that contains sand and perlite for maximum drainage. Consider getting a pair of rose gloves the next time you’re in for handling your cactus during a re-pot.

At Moonfire, you can generally find these varieties of cacti: Prickly Pear, Christmas Cactus, Grafted Cactus, Bunny Ear, San pedro, Pencil, Golden Rat Tail, Fishbone, Corn Cobb, Barrel, Zig Zag, Fairy Castle to name a few. We also stock assortments of 2” and 4” cacti in multiple varieties that are ever-changing, so it’s a mixed bag each time! Feel free to email or give us a call if there is something specific you are looking for that we may be able to order for you.