Height 12 – 18in/30.5 – 45.5cm

The fruit and flowers are non-toxic to pets, but the glochids are moderately irritating to the skin.

This cactus enjoys temperatures ranging from 70-100°F (21-37°C), but demands cooler temperatures during the winter months. Starting in the late fall, this cactus should be kept between 50-65°F (10-18°C), and away from central heating vents. The cooler spell is demanded over the course of the entire winter, during which time the segments of cactus will turn a light gray color. Failure to provide these controlled winter conditions will result in plant death the following spring.

Demands full light growing for most of the year, except during the winter cycle. For the plant’s health, light should be reduced to partial sun during this time.

The Polka-dot Cactus is a desert species. It should be given water on a regular basis during its first season in a new pot. This will help it to create a strong root system. The soil should be kept moist, but not soggy. After the first season, more sporadic watering is required. During the winter cycle, the cactus should not be watered at all, with watering to resume in the early spring.

Like most cacti, this specimen demands sandy soil-bases that drain easily. It is usually happy with the pre-packaged cactus soil found in common hardware stores. To increase drainage for a picky plant, mix in a 1:1 ratio of perlite or bark.

Monthly feeding of low nitrogen fertilizer. Fertilization should stop one month before the planned winter cycle for the plant’s health.

Re-potting should take place in the summer, after the year’s bloom has finished. Remember to water the plant regularly to promote the growth of a healthy root system during its first year in the new pot.

Prefers low humidity conditions. Consider running a dehumidifier in the room where the cactus lives to provide it with the most ideal conditions possible.

Any fully grown pad from this cactus may be broken off cleanly in the early summer and re-potted for propagation purposes. Cuttings work best when grouped in threes or more, and should be buried an inch deep in the soil. Remember to water regularly to promote the growth of a healthy root system in the first year after propagation.