Cacti are some of the most unique and fascinating plants in the world. With their spiky arms, quirky shapes, and vibrant blooms, these desert dwellers have captured the imagination of gardeners, collectors, and nature enthusiasts alike. From the classic prickly pear to the unusual organ pipe cactus, there is a wide variety of cacti to choose from. If you’re looking to add some interest to your garden or collection, here are 22 of the most beautiful and weird-looking cacti you may like.
Spiky Spheres: These cacti feature small, spherical stems covered in dense clusters of short, white or yellow spines. They produce small yellow or pink flowers in the spring and summer.
Star-Shaped Wonders: These cacti are characterized by their small, round stems covered in dense clusters of spines that are arranged in a radial pattern, giving the plant a distinctive star-like appearance.
Columnar Beauties: These tall, narrow cacti are perfect for creating a focal point in your garden. They feature long, cylindrical stems that are covered in spines and are topped with vibrant blooms in the spring and summer.
Frilly Foliage: These cacti feature delicate, frilly foliage that adds a unique texture to your garden. They are slow-growing and produce vibrant flowers in shades of yellow, orange, and pink.
Fluffy Fuzzies: These cacti feature soft, fuzzy stems that are covered in spines. They are slow-growing and produce small, brightly colored flowers in the spring and summer.
Spiky Stalactites: These cacti feature long, cylindrical stems that are covered in dense clusters of spines that resemble stalactites. They produce vibrant flowers in shades of yellow, orange, and red.
Wavy Wonders: These cacti feature wavy, undulating stems that are covered in spines. They produce small yellow or pink flowers in the spring and summer.
Spiky Trees: These cacti resemble miniature trees with tall stems and branches that are covered in spines. They produce vibrant flowers in shades of yellow, orange, and red.
Brainy Blooms: These cacti feature stems that resemble the ridges and valleys of a human brain. They produce vibrant flowers in shades of yellow, orange, and pink.
Spiky Puffs have stems that look like fluffy clouds and are covered in short, white or yellow spines.They produce small yellow or pink flowers in the spring and summer.
Strangely Shaped: These cacti feature stems that are shaped like pipes, clubs, or other unusual forms. They produce vibrant flowers in shades of yellow, orange, and red.
Fuzzy Fixtures: These cacti feature stems that are covered in a soft, fuzzy fur and are topped with vibrant blooms in the spring and summer.
Colorful Candelabras: These cacti feature tall, branching stems that are covered in spines and are topped with vibrant blooms in shades of yellow, orange, and red.
Dainty Domes: These cacti feature small, spherical stems that are covered in delicate spines. They produce small yellow or pink flowers in the spring and summer.
Spiky Spires: These cacti feature tall, narrow stems that are covered in spines and are topped with vibrant blooms in the spring and summer.
Quirky Clumps: These cacti form clumps of small, spherical stems that are covered in spines. They produce small yellow or pink flowers in the spring and summer.
Woolly Wonders: These cacti feature stems that are covered in a thick, woolly fur and are topped with vibrant blooms in shades of yellow, orange, and red.
Spiky Snowballs: These cacti have small, spherical stems with short, white or yellow spines.They produce small yellow or pink flowers in the spring and summer.
Cactus Cushions: These cacti feature stems that are shaped like cushions and are covered in spines. They produce vibrant flowers in shades of yellow, orange, and pink.
Spiky Sprays: These cacti feature stems that resemble fountains and are covered in spines. They produce vibrant flowers in shades of yellow, orange, and red.
Strange Stems: These cacti feature stems that are shaped like spirals, ribbons, or other unusual forms. They produce vibrant flowers in shades of yellow, orange, and pink.
Fuzzy Fronds: These cacti feature delicate stems that resemble fronds and are covered in a soft, fuzzy fur. They produce small, brightly colored flowers in the spring and summer.
Whether you’re a seasoned cactus collector or just looking to add some unique and interesting plants to your garden, these 22 cacti are sure to captivate your imagination. From their spiky stems and quirky shapes to their vibrant blooms, these plants are sure to add some excitement to your garden or collection.
In this pictorial guide, we cover 22 Beautiful And Weird Looking Cactus You May Like as follows:
- Epithelantha Micromeris – 22 Beautiful And Weird Looking Cactus You May Like
- Gymnocalycium Mihanovichii
- Opuntia Microdasys
- Ferocactus Pilosus
- Echinocereus Pentalophus
- Rebutia Alba
- Espostoa Lanata
- Pediocactus Simpsonii
- Lophophora Williamsii
- Mammillaria Longimamma
- Notocactus Magnificus
- Parodia Scopa
- Schlumbergera Truncata
- Sclerocactus Parviflorus
- Thelocactus Bicolor
- Turbinicarpus Schmiedickeanus
- Ariocarpus Fissuratus
- Coryphantha Vivipara
- Escobaria Vivipara
- Copiapoa Cinerea
- Mammillaria Spinosissima
- Mammillaria Geminispina
- How To Grow And Care For Cacti
- How To Propagate Cacti
- Top 5 FAQ And Answers For Cactus
- Top 10 Interesting Facts About Weird Looking Cactus
Epithelantha Micromeris – 22 Beautiful And Weird Looking Cactus You May Like
Epithelantha Micromeris: This species of cactus has a small, spherical body covered in dense clusters of tiny spines. It is native to Mexico and is known for its unusual, labyrinthine growth pattern.
Gymnocalycium Mihanovichii – 22 Beautiful And Weird Looking Cactus You May Like
Gymnocalycium Mihanovichii: Also known as the Moon Cactus, this species has a rounded, flattened shape and a vibrant red or yellow color. It is native to South America and is prized for its ornamental value.
Opuntia Microdasys – 22 Beautiful And Weird Looking Cactus You May Like
Opuntia Microdasys: This species of cactus is also known as the Bunny Ear Cactus, due to its distinctive “ears” that are covered in soft, white spines. It is native to Mexico and is often used as a decorative plant in landscaping.
Ferocactus Pilosus – 22 Beautiful And Weird Looking Cactus You May Like
Ferocactus Pilosus: This cactus has a cylindrical shape and is covered in long, curved spines that resemble needles. It is native to Mexico and is known for its tough, drought-resistant nature.
Echinocereus Pentalophus – 22 Beautiful And Weird Looking Cactus You May Like
Echinocereus Pentalophus: This species of cactus is known for its unusual, star-shaped spines that are arranged in a circular pattern around its body. It is native to Mexico and is often used in xeriscaping due to its low water requirements.
Rebutia Alba – 22 Beautiful And Weird Looking Cactus You May Like
Rebutia Alba: This small, round cactus is covered in dense clusters of white spines that give it a fluffy appearance. It is native to South America and is known for its ease of cultivation and ability to produce brightly colored flowers.
Espostoa Lanata – 22 Beautiful And Weird Looking Cactus You May Like
Espostoa Lanata: This species of cactus is also known as the Old Man Cactus due to its long, white, woolly “beard” of spines. It is native to South America and is prized for its ornamental value.
Pediocactus Simpsonii – 22 Beautiful And Weird Looking Cactus You May Like
Pediocactus Simpsonii: This species of cactus has a cylindrical shape and is covered in a dense layer of short, white spines that give it a furry appearance. It is native to the United States and is known for its ability to survive in harsh desert environments.
Lophophora Williamsii – 22 Beautiful And Weird Looking Cactus You May Like
Lophophora Williamsii: Also known as the Peyote Cactus, this species is known for its small, spineless body and distinctive, nipple-like protrusions. It is native to Mexico and is used for its psychoactive properties in indigenous spiritual ceremonies.
Mammillaria Longimamma – 22 Beautiful And Weird Looking Cactus You May Like
Mammillaria Longimamma: This species of cactus is known for its long, slender stems and unusual, ring-shaped spines that resemble the bristles of a brush. It is native to Mexico and is prized for its ornamental value.
Notocactus Magnificus – 22 Beautiful And Weird Looking Cactus You May Like
Notocactus Magnificus: This species of cactus has a spherical body covered in dense clusters of short, stiff spines. It is native to South America and is known for its large, bright yellow flowers.
Parodia Scopa – 22 Beautiful And Weird Looking Cactus You May Like
Parodia Scopa: This species of cactus has a cylindrical shape and is covered in dense clusters of short, golden spines. It is native to South America and is known for its ease of cultivation and ability to produce brightly colored flowers.
Schlumbergera Truncata – 22 Beautiful And Weird Looking Cactus You May Like
Schlumbergera Truncata: Also known as the Christmas Cactus, this species has long, trailing stems covered in clusters of flat, fleshy leaves. It is native to Brazil and is prized for its ability to produce brightly colored flowers during the holiday season.
Sclerocactus Parviflorus – 22 Beautiful And Weird Looking Cactus You May Like
Sclerocactus Parviflorus: This species of cactus has a cylindrical shape and is covered in long, slender spines that resemble needles. It is native to the United States and is known for its small size and ability to survive in harsh desert environments.
Thelocactus Bicolor – 22 Beautiful And Weird Looking Cactus You May Like
Thelocactus Bicolor: This species of cactus has a spherical body covered in dense clusters of long, slender spines. It is native to Mexico and is known for its ease of cultivation and ability to produce brightly colored flowers.
Turbinicarpus Schmiedickeanus – 22 Beautiful And Weird Looking Cactus You May Like
Turbinicarpus Schmiedickeanus: This species of cactus has a small, spherical body covered in dense clusters of tiny spines. It is native to Mexico and is prized for its ornamental value.
Ariocarpus Fissuratus – 22 Beautiful And Weird Looking Cactus You May Like
Ariocarpus Fissuratus: This species of cactus has a flat, disc-like shape and is covered in dense clusters of small spines. It is native to Mexico and is known for its ability to survive in harsh desert environments.
Coryphantha Vivipara – 22 Beautiful And Weird Looking Cactus You May Like
Coryphantha Vivipara: This species of cactus has a spherical body covered in dense clusters of short, stiff spines. It is native to Mexico and is known for its ability to survive in harsh desert environments and its ease of cultivation.
Escobaria Vivipara – 22 Beautiful And Weird Looking Cactus You May Like
Escobaria Vivipara: This species of cactus has a small, spherical body covered in dense clusters of short, stiff spines. It is native to the United States and is known for its ability to survive in harsh desert environments and its ease of cultivation.
Copiapoa Cinerea – 22 Beautiful And Weird Looking Cactus You May Like
Copiapoa Cinerea: This species of cactus has a small, spherical body covered in dense clusters of short, silver-grey spines. It is native to South America and is known for its unusual coloration and ease of cultivation.
Mammillaria Spinosissima – 22 Beautiful And Weird Looking Cactus You May Like
Mammillaria Spinosissima, also known as the old lady cactus, is a species of cactus that is native to Mexico. It is a slow-growing cactus that forms clusters of small, spherical stems. The stems are covered in dense clusters of short, white spines that give the plant a frosted appearance. The old lady cactus produces small yellow or pink flowers in the spring and summer and is prized for its ornamental value. Despite its delicate appearance, Mammillaria Spinosissima is a hardy plant that can survive in a range of conditions, making it a popular choice for cactus gardens and indoor collections.
Mammillaria Geminispina – 22 Beautiful And Weird Looking Cactus You May Like
Mammillaria Geminispina is a species of cactus that is native to Mexico. It is a small, slow-growing cactus that forms clusters of short, round stems covered in dense clusters of spines. The spines are typically yellow or white and are arranged in a radial pattern, giving the plant a distinctive star-like appearance.
Mammillaria Geminispina produces small, yellow or pink flowers in the spring and summer and is prized for its ornamental value. Despite its delicate appearance, Mammillaria Geminispina is a hardy plant that can survive in a range of conditions, making it a popular choice for cactus gardens and indoor collections. The species name Geminispina refers to the two spines that are typically found on each areole, which resemble twins.
How To Grow And Care For Cacti – 22 Beautiful And Weird Looking Cactus You May Like
Growing and caring for cacti is relatively easy and straightforward, as long as you follow a few simple guidelines. Here are some tips for growing and caring for cacti:
- Light: Most cacti prefer bright, direct sunlight and can grow in full sun or partial shade.
- Soil: Use a well-draining cactus mix or make your own by mixing together sand, perlite, and potting soil.
- Water: Water cacti sparingly, allowing the soil to dry out completely between waterings. In the winter, cacti can go several weeks without water. Overwatering is one of the most common mistakes when it comes to cactus care.
- Temperature: Cacti prefer warm temperatures between 70 and 90 degrees Fahrenheit, but they can tolerate brief periods of cold or heat.
- Humidity: Cacti are not particularly picky about humidity but do not like to be in overly moist or humid environments.
- Fertilizer: Fertilize cacti once a month during the growing season with a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer.
- Potting: Repot cacti every two to three years or when the plant has outgrown its pot. Prepare a pot with good drainage and a well-draining soil mix.
- Pruning: Prune cacti to maintain their shape, remove dead or damaged growth, or encourage branching.
- Pests and Diseases: Cacti are generally low-maintenance and resistant to pests and diseases. However, they may be susceptible to mealybugs, scale insects, and root rot if overwatered.
By following these simple guidelines, you can ensure that your cacti stay healthy and thrive for years to come. With a little bit of care and attention, you can enjoy a beautiful and unique collection of cacti in your home or garden.
How To Propagate Cacti – 22 Beautiful And Weird Looking Cactus You May Like
There are several methods to propagate cacti, including seeds, cuttings, and offsets. Here’s a guide to help you propagate cacti:
- Seeds: The easiest and most straightforward way to propagate cacti is to grow them from seeds. Start by sowing seeds in a well-draining cactus mix, covering them with a light layer of soil, and watering sparingly. Store the seeds in a warm, sunlight are and keep the soil moist but not wet thoroughly. Seedlings will emerge in several weeks to several months, depending on the species.
- Cuttings: Cuttings are an easy and effective way to propagate cacti. To begin, take a healthy, mature cactus cutting and let it calluses over for a few days.Then, plant the cutting in a well-draining cactus mix, water sparingly, and place it in a bright, warm location. Cuttings will root in several weeks to several months, depending on the species.
- Offsets: Some cacti, such as Mammillarias and Echinocereus, produce offsets that can be removed and planted separately. Simply remove the offset from the mother plant, allow it to callus over for a few days, and then plant it in a well-draining cactus mix. Water sparingly and place it in a bright, warm location. Offsets will root in several weeks to several months, depending on the species.
No matter which method you choose, it’s important to provide your new cacti with bright, direct light, well-draining soil, and warm temperatures. Overwatering is the most common cause of failure when it comes to propagating cacti, so it’s important to water sparingly and allow the soil to dry out completely between waterings.
Propagating cacti is a great way to increase your collection and share your plants with others. With a little bit of patience and attention, you can enjoy a beautiful and thriving collection of cacti for years to come.
Top 5 FAQ And Answers For Cactus
Q: What type of soil is best for cacti?
A: Cacti prefer well-draining soil that is designed specifically for cacti and succulents. These types of soils are light and airy, allowing for proper drainage and helping to prevent root rot. You can also add sand or perlite to regular potting soil to improve its drainage.
Q: How often should I water my cactus?
A: Cacti have evolved to store water in their stems and leaves, so they are relatively drought-tolerant. However, they do need regular watering to thrive. The frequency of watering will depend on the species, the size of the pot, the temperature, and the humidity. A good rule of thumb is to water deeply and then allow the soil to dry out completely before watering again. In general, cacti should be watered about once a week during the growing season and once every two to four weeks during the dormant season.
Q: How much light does a cactus need?
A: Cacti prefer bright, direct light. Many species will grow best in a south- or west-facing window. However, some species can be sensitive to intense, direct sun and may require some protection during the hottest parts of the day.
Q: Why is my cactus turning yellow or brown?
A: There are several reasons why a cactus may turn yellow or brown, including sunburn, overwatering, pests, or disease. If your cactus is turning yellow or brown, it’s a sign that something is not right, so it’s important to take action to address the problem.
Q: Can I grow cacti indoors?
A: Yes, cacti can be grown indoors, but they do require bright, direct light and well-draining soil. It’s important to provide proper light and soil, as well as to water sparingly and allow the soil to dry out completely between waterings. With the right care, indoor cacti can be a beautiful and low-maintenance addition to your home.
Top 10 Interesting Facts About Weird Looking Cactus
- Cacti are native to the Americas and are found in habitats ranging from deserts to tropical forests.
- Cacti have unique adaptations that help them survive in arid environments, including the ability to store water in their stems and leaves and a specialised root system that allows them to take in water rapidly during rainy periods.
- Some cacti are pollinated by bats, hummingbirds, or moths, while others are self-pollinating or rely on the wind to carry their pollen.
- Many cacti produce vibrant, showy flowers, which can range in colour from red, yellow, and pink to white, purple, and blue.
- Some cacti have spines that are designed to protect the plant from predators, while others have soft, hair-like spines that are used to collect moisture from the air.
- Certain cacti, such as the saguaro and organ pipe cacti, can grow to be over 60 feet tall, making them some of the tallest species of cacti in the world.
- Some cacti have edible fruit and have been used as a food source by indigenous people for thousands of years.
- Some species of cacti, such as peyote, contain psychoactive compounds and have been used for religious and medicinal purposes for centuries.
- Cacti have been extensively studied for their potential to produce biofuels and other environmentally friendly products, as they are able to grow in arid environments without the need for large amounts of water.
- Cacti are popular ornamental plants and are widely cultivated around the world for their unique appearance, ease of care, and ability to thrive in a variety of indoor and outdoor settings.
