Succulents & Cacti
Cactus
Cactaceae
The ultimate low-maintenance sunbather.
- Typical watering
- Every ~21 days
- Light
- bright direct
- Difficulty
- easy
Care tips
- In winter, water barely at all
- Terracotta pots help the soil dry
- Rotate for even growth
Common questions
How often should I water a cactus? +
A healthy indoor cactus typically wants water every 21 days or so. Treat that as a starting cadence, not a rule — pot size, light, and season all shift it, so check the soil before you pour.
How much light does a cactus need? +
A cactus does best in bright direct light. If it stretches, fades, or stalls, adjust its spot before changing anything else.
Is a cactus toxic to cats or dogs? +
The cactus is generally considered non-toxic to cats and dogs per the ASPCA plant lists — still best kept out of chewing range.
Typical guidance for a healthy cactus — your own conditions (and your vet, for animals) come first.
Related guides
- Aloe Vera Sun-loving succulent with soothing gel; water rarely, deeply.
- Burro's Tail Braided ropes of plump beads spill over the pot - gorgeous, but every bump sheds leaves.
- Christmas Cactus A jungle cactus, not a desert one - it drinks more than you'd think and blooms on cue in winter.
- Echeveria Perfect pastel rosettes that stay perfect only with real sun and a stingy watering can.
- Jade Plant A miniature tree with coin-like leaves that can outlive its owner on a sunny sill.
- Kalanchoe Supermarket-cheap clusters of long-lasting blooms on a succulent that reflowers with a dark trick.