pink pencil cactus Gymnocalycium mihanovichii freidrichiiMoon Cactus: With its brilliant pink bulbs, this Gymnocalycium is a great gift for beginner gardeners. Youre even getting a sort of two for one deal! The Frankenstein's monster of the cacti world, moon cacti are actually two plants grafted together: G. mihanovichii atop Hylocereus root stock. These cute cacti stay relatively small if youre looking for something for a desk or small apartment. Plant Care Notes Moon cacti like a lot of bright, indirect

Moon Cactus: With its brilliant pink bulbs, this Gymnocalycium is a great gift for beginner gardeners. You’re even getting a sort of two-for-one deal! The Frankenstein's monster of the cacti world, moon cacti are actually two plants grafted together: G. mihanovichii atop Hylocereus root stock. These cute cacti stay relatively small if you’re looking for something for a desk or small apartment.

Plant Care Notes

Moon cacti like a lot of bright, indirect sunlight, and can even tolerate slightly less light. Just be careful not to throw it under direct sunlight, these sensitive succulents can burn just like people under too much sun. In lieu of sunscreen, try out a little shade. If you’re growing moon cactus outdoors, just don’t let it catch a chill below about 50°F (10°C).

When it’s time to water, follow the soak-and-dry rule: water thoroughly, then let the soil dry out completely before watering again. Be careful not to overwater, as Moon Cacti are prone to root rot, and reduce watering in the Winter. Pair it with a well-draining cactus mix that includes extra perlite or pumice to keep its roots happy and healthy.

Propagating a moon cactus is a bit more challenging than your average cactus or succulent but it’s not impossible. By removing a pup, or bulb, from the top gymnocalyceum and attaching it to a new hylocereus rootstock you can create more moon cacti than you’ll know what to do with!