Cacti
Explore the true cactus groups, their forms and growing habits, plus the watering, light and soil patterns that keep cacti healthy in Australian gardens.
Cacti belong to the family Cactaceae. Most have areoles, which are small specialized points that produce spines, flowers, branches, or wool.
Cactus Forms
Section titled “Cactus Forms”| Form | Examples | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Pad cactus | Opuntia, prickly pear | Flat stem pads, edible forms exist |
| Barrel cactus | Ferocactus, Echinocactus | Round ribbed bodies, strong spines |
| Columnar cactus | Cereus, Trichocereus, saguaro | Upright stems, often large over time |
| Globular cactus | Mammillaria, rebutia, gymnocalycium | Compact collections and small pots |
| Jungle cactus | Rhipsalis, epiphyllum, schlumbergera | Epiphytic, less desert-like, filtered light |
Care Pattern
Section titled “Care Pattern”Desert cacti need high light, gritty drainage, and drying between waterings. Many bloom better with a cooler, drier rest period. Jungle cacti prefer filtered light and more organic moisture than desert cacti.