Pincushion Cactus Care

Give your prickly greenie a drink once a week during the hot summer months. Reduce hydration to once every 2-3 weeks in winter. It’s important not to waterlog the plant, as it leads to root rot.

This plant is not usually pruned. The only exception is baby cacti, which can be cut with a sharp blade for propagation.

It’s best to use a slow-release fertilizer to give Pincushion Cactus extra feeding. Apply nourishment in spring, summer, and fall, and avoid fertilizing in winter, as the plant goes dormant.

Pincushion Cactus enjoys full sun conditions. It’s best to keep it on a west-facing window to let the greenie receive around 6-8 hours of direct sunlight daily.

Well-draining, nutrient-rich soil is what Pincushion Cactus enjoys the most. It’s recommended to amend the soil drainage with sand or perlite or use a cacti-special potting mix with a 6-7 pH range.

Using offsets is the most popular way to propagate Pincushion Cactus. Cut the baby Cactus at its base with a sharp knife and leave it for a day to let the callus emerge. Plant the offset in a narrow and shallow pot with a well-draining potting mix. Give the new plant a regular drink but avoid waterlogging it.

Native to an area with a warm climate, Pincushion Cactus grows best under 60-85°F (15-29°C) temperature. It’s important to keep the plant away from droughts and not expose it to temperatures below 50℉ (15℃).

Just like many cacti, Pincushion Cactus doesn’t need a big container, as the plant is not root bound. Opt for a pot made of terra cotta or unglazed clay that is a bit larger than the Cactus's root ball. The pot should have at least one drainage hole to allow excess water to flow out easily.

This plant has medical value. This Cactus species has anti-inflammatory properties, and it was used as a pain reliever. The Native American tribes used Pincushion Cactus to treat wounds, fever, and stomach issues.