Moon cactus, also known as Gymnocalycium mihanovichii, is a small, spherical cactus native to South America. It is a popular houseplant and is known for its unique appearance, with a body that is often a vibrant shade of red, pink, or orange, and a top that is typically green.
One of the most striking features of moon cactus is its lack of chlorophyll, the pigment that allows plants to photosynthesize and produce their own food. This means that moon cactus cannot survive on its own and must be grafted onto the stem of another cactus species, such as a Hylocereus or a Selenicereus, in order to survive.
Moon cactus is relatively easy to care for, and can thrive in a variety of indoor environments. It prefers bright, indirect sunlight and well-draining soil, and should be watered sparingly to prevent root rot. It is also important to protect the plant from extreme temperatures, as it is sensitive to both extreme heat and cold.
Overall, moon cactus is a unique and visually appealing plant that can add a touch of color to any indoor space. With proper care, it can thrive and bring enjoyment for many years to come.
Description for Grafted cactus plants, Moon Cactus (Multi Shade)
Moon cactus plants come in vibrant bright colors of hot maroon. These are small plants, generally only a half inch across, although there are cultivars that get up to 8 inches in diameter.
| Common name | Flower colors | Bloom time | Height | Difficulty |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Moon Cactus | Maroon | Spring / Summer | Half inch to 8 inches | Easy to grow |
Planting and care
Re-pot when the plant performs clump and goes beyond the pot size. It should be done before or after the rainy season and in the spring season.
Re-pot with the following proportions: 3 parts of potting soil, 1 part of grit (pumice), 1 part of the horticultural-grade sand, 1/2 part of the compost etc.
| Sunlight | Soil | Water | Temperature | Fertilizer |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bright indirect sunlight | Well-drained soil | Water moon cactus plants thoroughly, then let the plant dry out between waterings. | Above 9 degrees C, The tiny moon cactus will not do well in very cold temperatures, so bring it inside to overwinter during the cold winter months. | Treat it with a cactus fertilizer every month during its growing season. |
Caring for Grafted moon cactus plants
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- Plants prefer temperatures on the warm side but need a minimum of 48 degrees F(9 degrees C) to survive.
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- Indoor plants should be partially shielded from bright sunlight by slatted blinds during the brightest part of the day.
Typical uses of Grafted cactus
Special features: Grafted Maroon moon cactus
Ornamental use: Plants are used for an ornamental purpose.
References
Learn to take care of your moon cactus like a pro in this short video
Moon Cactus | Gymnocalycium mihanovichii Care And Tips – YouTube
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