18 Strange Cactus Plants That Amaze Every Gardener
You are a cactus lover, so you will love our post today. Here, we’ve summed up the 18 Strange Cactus Plants That You Can Grow.
They come in different shapes and each has its own beauty to give you interesting looks, so if you are looking for unusual cactus plants, the list is for you. Follow us to explore them as well as choose the ones that you want to grow in your home and garden.
In recent years, cactus has gained overwhelming popularity in the garden design world. They can be easily integrated with other drought-tolerant trees, shrubs, perennials, and ornamental grasses for a beautiful and natural-looking garden design that many homeowners favor.
Not just that they can grow well outdoors in raised planting beds or an entire yard, but some can also grow both indoors in containers or pots.
#1 Old Man Cactus
Old Man Cactus is easy to recognize with its long, shaggy white hairs covering the stem. These hairs protect the plant from harsh sun and give it a soft, aged appearance. Place it in a bright window or a sunny garden spot for best growth.
Water sparingly, allowing the soil to dry completely between watering sessions. Repotting every few years helps refresh the soil and prevent root binding. This cactus is both quirky and charming, making it a great conversation piece.
#2 Santa Rita Prickly Pear
Santa Rita Prickly Pear dazzles with pads in shades of purple, especially in cooler weather. In spring, it bursts into orange-red blooms that later give way to purple fruits. It thrives in hot, dry spots and needs full sun to keep its vibrant color.
Use well-draining soil to prevent rot and water deeply but infrequently. Its striking pads bring color contrast to any cactus garden. Grow it outdoors where it has room to spread for the best effect.
#3 Eagle Claw Cactus
Eagle Claw Cactus earns its name from its curved spines that resemble sharp talons. These dramatic spines grow around a rounded body, creating a bold look. It enjoys rocky, well-drained soil and full sun exposure.
Water lightly during the growing season and cut back in winter. When it blooms, it rewards you with bright yellow flowers. Adding this cactus to your garden gives it a wild, rugged character.
#4 Old Lady Cactus
Old Lady Cactus forms small, round clumps covered in dense white spines that look like soft hair. In late winter or spring, rings of purple flowers crown the top, creating a lovely contrast. This cactus loves bright sunlight and thrives in sandy soil.
Water once the soil has dried out completely to avoid root problems. Small pots suit it well, making it ideal for indoor displays. Its playful look and colorful blooms brighten any collection.
#5 Ruby Ball
Ruby Ball, also called Moon Cactus, stands out with its vivid red or orange top grafted onto a green base. The colorful globe doesn t produce chlorophyll on its own, so it relies on the rootstock for survival.
Give it indirect sunlight and water just enough to keep the soil lightly moist. Pale pink blooms sometimes appear in the right conditions.
These plants are perfect for brightening tabletops or windowsills. They make delightful gifts for plant lovers.
#6 Hedgehog Cactus
Hedgehog Cactus is known for its clumping growth and spiny ridges. Some varieties produce vibrant pink or purple blooms that are truly eye-catching. It prefers rocky, sandy soil and full sunlight.
Water moderately during the warm months and less in winter. If grown in containers, ensure excellent drainage to avoid root rot. This cactus adds both beauty and texture to xeriscape gardens.
#7 Brain Cactus
Brain Cactus lives up to its name with twisted stems that mimic the folds of a human brain. Its unusual form develops when the cactus grows in a crest instead of straight upward. It enjoys bright light but can also adapt to indoor conditions.
Use a cactus mix with added sand for proper drainage. Water when the soil dries out, and reduce watering in cooler months. Its quirky appearance makes it a favorite for collectors.
#8 Dead Man s Fingers
Dead Man s Fingers is a striking plant with finger-like stems that rise from short, woody bases. The gray-green segments give it a ghostly, skeletal look. It thrives in hot, arid climates with plenty of sun.
Keep the soil dry most of the time, watering lightly only during the growing season. With minimal attention, it creates a dramatic effect in cactus arrangements. This plant is unusual enough to impress anyone who sees it.
#9 Dinosaur Back Plant
Dinosaur Back Plant is native to Mexico and earns its name from its rough, overlapping growth that looks like reptile scales. It can grow quite tall, reaching up to 16 feet outdoors. Plant it in full sun with gritty, well-drained soil.
Water sparingly and allow the plant to rest in cooler months. Its size and form make it an impressive landscape feature. In a collection, it quickly becomes the star.
#10 Lilliputian Cactus
Lilliputian Cactus is one of the smallest cactus species in the world, forming tiny green globes speckled with white spots. Despite its size, it is hardy and grows well in containers. Use a shallow dish with sandy soil for best results.
Water sparingly and protect from overwatering, as its roots are delicate. This cactus is ideal for miniature gardens or indoor collections. Its charm lies in its small but detailed beauty.
#11 Godzilla
Godzilla Cactus is dramatic with stacked triangular layers that resemble jagged rocks. In fall and early winter, it produces colorful flowers from its woolly tips. It thrives in well-drained soil and bright light.
Water lightly during the growing season and let it rest in cooler months. Its sculptural form makes it look like a living piece of art. Perfect for those who want a cactus that doubles as décor.
#12 Baseball Cactus
Baseball Cactus is a slow grower with a round shape that looks just like a baseball. It fits perfectly in small pots and thrives in sunny spots. Use gritty soil and water sparingly, as it stores water in its body.
Over time, it can produce small yellow flowers. Its compact size makes it ideal for desks or shelves. This cactus proves that small plants can make a big impact.
#13 Turbinicarpus Cactus
Turbinicarpus Cactus is a rare species found on rocky slopes in Mexico. Its small, knobby growths are topped with delicate flowers in white or pink. It needs gritty soil and full sun to thrive.
Water lightly and only when the soil is dry. Because of its rarity, it s a prized find for collectors. Its delicate blooms contrast beautifully with its rugged body.
#14 Monstrose Cactus
Monstrose Cactus stands out with its twisted, irregular growth and dark purplish stems dotted with woolly patches. Each plant develops a unique shape, making no two alike. It grows well in containers with sandy soil and plenty of sun.
Water occasionally, avoiding soggy conditions. Its odd form adds intrigue to cactus displays. This plant is both mysterious and beautiful, perfect for creative gardeners.
#15 Stenocereus Cactus
Stenocereus Cactus grows in wave-like curves, creating an unusual, flowing silhouette. The tips often show purple highlights, adding extra color. It enjoys hot, dry environments and plenty of sunlight.
Use rocky soil with good drainage for healthy growth. Water deeply but infrequently during warm months. Its dramatic shape makes it a standout in any garden.
#16 Varispiralis Cactus
Varispiralis Cactus has a striking spiral form, with spines that twist clockwise around the stem. This geometric pattern makes it highly collectible. Place it in full sun and use gritty soil for best growth.
Water moderately in summer and very little in winter. Its unique appearance adds a sculptural touch to gardens or indoor pots. Over time, it becomes even more fascinating as the spiral tightens.
#17 Silver Torch Cactus
Silver Torch Cactus is tall and slender, covered in fine white hairs that give it a silvery glow. It can grow up to 10 feet tall, making it an impressive sight. In summer, it produces bright red, tubular flowers.
Plant it in sandy soil with full sun exposure. Water deeply but infrequently to keep it healthy. Its torch-like appearance adds elegance to both gardens and indoor displays.
#18 Papyracanthus
Papyracanthus is a low-growing cactus with fragile segments that break off easily. The remaining parts curl as they grow, creating a whimsical look. It stays small, usually under 12 inches, making it suitable for pots.
Provide well-draining soil and bright light for best growth. Water sparingly to prevent rot. This cactus may be petite, but its unusual form makes it unforgettable.