Collection: Arid Houseplants

Astrophytum asterias variegated is a small, and slow growing cultivar of the Astrophytum asterias cactus. Its coloration and surface patterns are unique to every plant, making it a coveted and rare plant for any collection. Grow the Astrophytum asterias variegated in a hot, sunny window but be careful of glass magnification when grown on windowsills for surface burn. Water during the hot summer months. Let the soil dry out between waterings. During the winter months, water sparingly. Cold temperatures, low light and wet soil will quickly lead to root or stem rot. Astrophytum asterias variegated can be propagated from seed. Apply a water-soluble, balanced fertilizer monthly during the summer months to promote healthy growth and flowers.

The Astrophytum Asterias Superkabuto, native to the arid landscapes of northeastern Mexico, is a highly sought-after cactus with a unique, almost ethereal beauty. This rare variety, known for its rounded, spineless shape, is a cultivar of the Astrophytum Asterias species, bred to produce its signature white, speckled markings. These distinctive white flecks blanket the cactus’s green surface like stars scattered across the night sky, making each plant a one-of-a-kind and a prized piece for collectors. In its natural habitat, the Superkabuto grows low to the ground, blending into rocky, sun-drenched terrain. To replicate these conditions at home, it thrives best in bright, indirect light and requires minimal watering, as the soil should fully dry out between waterings. A well-draining cactus or succulent mix is essential, as the plant is sensitive to root rot. Though this cactus can handle high temperatures, it should be protected from frost and kept in a warm, dry spot to ensure its health.

The Cereus Forbesii 'Spiralis' is a rare cultivar of the Cereus forbesii prized for it's spiral growth habit. When grown from seed, the Spiralis won't start twisting until it reaches a height of 3-4" tall.  The Spiralis should be grown in a mix of direct and indirect sun and dry conditions. During the grow season, it should be watered thoroughly, when the soil is dry. During cold, winter months, it should be left to dry between waterings and watered sparingly. The spiralis will bloom big, beautiful white blossoms between June and August. Ensure the light requirements are met and increase watering and fertilization. The blossoms only open at night and span 2-4" wide. Spiralis can be fed with a cactus fertilizer once per month, spring through fall.

Echinocereus rigidissimus var. rubrispinus is commonly called the rainbow hedgehog cactus and best known for its beautiful pink coloration. This petite plant typically grows to reach 30 cm tall by 11 cm wide. Aptly named, it bears new spines that are magenta colored and fade to yellow or light pink with maturity. Echinocereus rigidissimus grows as a stocky, solitary stem, rarely producing offsets. Endemic to parts of northwest Mexico and southwest United States, it can be found growing on rocky slopes at high elevation. Echinocereus rigidissimus are desert cacti that require full sun. The more sun this cactus receives, the more brilliant the spine coloration will become. Echinocereus rigidissimus plants are extremely drought tolerant. Water them thoroughly, fully saturating the soil. Always allow the soil to dry out completely in between waterings. Echinocereus rigidissimus var. rubrispinus flower in the spring, from late April to early June. Flowers buds are borne in clusters from the top of the cacti. Blossoms are bright pink in color. Fertilize during the growing season to stimulate growth and blooms.

The Euphorbia abdelkuri is a rare succulent plant with grey coloration that shines iridescent in the sun. It forms densely branched candelabra-like clumps, usually not more than 3 feet in height. It is one of the most coveted Euphorbia species. Euphorbia do best with a few hours of direct sun in the morning or late afternoon. Filtered light during the sun’s peak hours will keep this plant from bleaching. Avoid intense afternoon sun. Water thoroughly during the hot summer months. Let the soil somewhat dry out between waterings. During the winter months, water only when the soil becomes completely dry. Cold temperatures, low light and wet soil can lead to root or stem rot. Euphorbia can be propagated from stem cuttings. Take great care when cutting these plants as they contain a sap that can be highly irritant if contacted with skin. Allow cuttings to callous for several days before dusting with rooting hormone and placing in soil. Fertilize to stimulate growth and healthy roots. 

Euphorbia confinalis ssp. Rhodesia variegata 'Zebra' is a sought after euphorbia with exquisite markings and coloring. Native to Zimbabwe these beauties want heat and sun to grow and look their best. Grow the Euphorbia confinalis in a sunny and hot window. Water thoroughly during the hot summer months. Let the soil dry out between waterings. During the winter months, water sparingly. Cold temperatures, low light and wet soil can lead to root or stem rot. Euphorbia confinalis can be propagated from stem cuttings. Allow cuttings to callous for several days before dusting with rooting hormone and placing in gritty soil. These plants do not require fertilizer though it can be added to give container grown plants a boost or to supplement poor soil. Apply a water-soluble, balanced fertilizer monthly, diluted at half strength.

Euphorbia inermis aka 'Medusa's head' is a small geophytic species, both a caudiciform and medusoid Euphorbia, native to the eastern Cape of South Africa. It has many branches that radiate from a central stem, which resembles a spiral when viewed from above. Euphorbia plants do best in full sun, at least 5 to 8 hours a day. Avoid intense afternoon sun. Grow outdoors in light shade or indoors in a sunny window with southern exposure and direct sun. In late Spring and Summer, water soil thoroughly, allowing it to dry completely in between waterings. During the winter when the plant is dormant, water less frequently. Always check your local weather before watering indoor arid plants in winter. It is best to water if there is a stretch of sunshine in the forecast.

Because of its otherworldly color, the White Ghost is one of the most sought variegated succulents by collectors. This nursery cultivar is a branching, fast grower, easy to care for as long as it gets plenty of direct sunlight. Euphorbia 'White Ghost' was cultivated in a nursery, but its wild variety, known as Euphorbia lactea or Candelabra, is native to subtropical Asia.  In late Spring and Summer, water soil thoroughly, allowing it to dry completely in between waterings. During the winter when the plant is dominant, water less frequently.  Propagate by stem cuttings taken in the summer months. Remove a branch or offset, wash the cut end to remove the latex and then allow it to dry for a week or so to allow the cut end to callus before planting in soil. Always wear gloves. Fertilize to stimulate growth and healthy roots during the grow season. 

Euphorbia obesa is a rare and sought-after euphorbia species that will grow well indoors. As it matures, the ball-like shape will stretch to oblong and harden along the ridge lines. Mature obesa are coveted for their unique appearance and markings. Though fairly common in cultivation, unsustainable harvesting has pushed this species to near extinction. As a result, legislation has been enacted to protect the remaining population. Nursery and botanic gardens have been growing this species en masse to mitigate the amount of harvesting of this plant in the wild and further protect native plants. We only source plants from growers who have collected seeds legally and adhere to CITES regulations.

Euphorbia stellata is a small geophytic species, both a caudiciform and medusoid Euphorbia. The caudex is frequently elevated in cultivation. Flowers bloom on the edges of the Euphorbia branches. Blooms are small, waxy and yellow in color. Euphorbia stellata plants grow best in full sun. Avoid intense afternoon sun. Euphorbia stellata are drought tolerant plants. Their soil should be allowed to dry out entirely before watering thoroughly. If the caudex starts to shrivel, Euphorbia stellata is thirsty and should be watered.  Branch cuttings can be propagated and will form a caudex over time. Fertilize to stimulate growth and healthy roots during the grow season. 

Fockea edulis is an unusual plant native to South Africa and Namibia, where the dry savannah and rocky slopes house its huge, water retaining caudex. This fat, twisted root is often lifted above the soil by collectors to give this plant the impression that it’s actually a miniature, wide-trunked tree. Semi-deciduous, this plant sheds leaves in the winter and relies on stored water for a semi-dormant period. Then, come late summer, it bursts forth with green-copper flowers. The term "caudex" refers to the enlarged, swollen, and often woody base of the plant that stores water and nutrients. This caudex is a common characteristic of many succulent and semi-succulent plants, including various species within the genus Fockea. Fockea edulis does best in filtered sun, 4 to 5 hours a day. Avoid intense afternoon sun by sheltering this plant beneath the limbs of a larger plant or placing it in the shadow of a sheer curtain. Grow outdoors in light shade or indoors in a sunny window with southern exposure. Native to arid and sub-tropical climates, Fockea edulis are drought tolerant plants. Water when the soil dries out in the summer and only infrequently during the winter. Their soil should be allowed to dry out entirely before watering thoroughly.

Gerrardanthus macrorhizus, commonly known as the Elephant's Foot Plant, is a unique and intriguing succulent that hails from the arid regions of southern Africa. Specifically, it is native to South Africa and parts of Namibia, where it has adapted to thrive in the harsh desert environment. This succulent is known for its distinctive caudex, which resembles an elephant's foot, hence its common name. It has also become a popular choice for cultivation in arid and xerophytic gardens around the world due to its striking appearance and minimal care requirements. The term "caudex" refers to a thickened, bulbous, or swollen stem that is often found in certain succulents and other plants. In the case of Gerrardanthus macrorhizus, the caudex is a critical adaptation to its natural habitat in arid and water-scarce regions of southern Africa. Provide your Gerrardanthus macrorhizus with plenty of bright, indirect sunlight. This succulent prefers full sun but can tolerate partial shade. Plant your Gerrardanthus macrorhizus in well-draining, sandy soil. You can also use a cactus or succulent potting mix. Good drainage is essential to prevent root rot. This succulent is adapted to dry conditions, so allow the soil to dry out between waterings. Water sparingly, about once every two to three weeks during the growing season (spring and summer). Reduce watering in the winter months. Overwatering can lead to root rot.

Hildewintera colademononis was reclassified to Cleistocactus winteri subsp. Colademononis AKA Monkey Tail Cactus. It has very long white and soft, hairlike spines. The common name “monkey's tail” refers to the appearance of the hairy stems. Growth of each tail starts as upright and then hangs and the flowers are beautiful, large, bright red blooms. Monkey tails grow best in bright indirect light but can take full direct sun or light shade. Avoid intense afternoon sun since that can sunburn the stems.Monkey Tail Cactus prefers to stay on the dry side. In the summer, water them only when the soil has dried out completely. They are built to withstand drought. Fertilize starting in spring through summer to stimulate healthy growth and roots.

Lophocereus schottii monstrose aka Totem pole cactus is a slow growing and spineless cactus. It is a genetic mutation of the Lophocereus schotti, with knobbly, irregular columnar growth. Highly sought after for its shape, irregularity and beautiful coloration. Grow the Lophocereus schottii monstrose in a sunny window but be careful of hot summer days as the magnification of glass, or direct sun overhead could burn these nearly spineless cactus. Water thoroughly during the hot summer months. Let the soil dry out between waterings. During the winter months, water sparingly. Cold temperatures, low light and wet soil can lead to root or stem rot. Lophocereus schottii monstrose can be propagated from stem cuttings. Allow cuttings to callous for several days before dusting with rooting hormone and placing in a very gritty soil. Fertilize starting in spring through summer to promote healthy growth and root systems. 

A native to Cuba, the Melocactus matanzanus is an etraordinary cactus. When it reaches a certain age of maturity, the Melocactus grows a cephalium from its center. This structure is where the flower buds will form and bloom. The size of the cephalium can signify how old the plant is. The Melocactus prefer at least 4 to 6 hours of sun daily. Indoors a south facing window is ideal. Water only when the soil has dried out completely. Always err on the side of under-watering. They are built to withstand drought. Fertilize starting in spring through summer to promote healthy growth and root systems.

Myrtillocactus geometrizans Fukurokuryuzinboku aka 'The Boob Cactus' is a monstrose cultivar of the more commonly seen Myrtillocactus geometrizans. The Fukurokuryuzinboku has unusual shaped ribs along with areoles that resemble nipples making this cactus appear like it has little breasts, hence the popular nickname, ‘The Boob or Boobie Cactus’. The 'Boobie Cactus' is a nursery produced cultivar which is a collectable amongst enthusiasts The Boobie cactus requires direct sun to grow evenly but be careful of very hot windowsills during summer months as the magnification from the glass can burn the spineless surface.Water only when the soil has dried out entirely. Always err on the side of under-watering. Fertilize starting in spring through summer to promote healthy growth and strong root systems.

The Myrtillocactus geometrizans crested is a highly sought after and rare form of the Myrtillocactus geometrizans. The crested formation occurs naturally in a clumping manner that can take years to build in height. The cactus is more or less spineless, its blue coloration will become more saturated with the proper sunlight. The Myrtillocactus requires direct sun to grow evenly but be careful of very hot windowsills during summer months as the magnification from the glass can burn the spineless surface. Allow the soil to dry completely between watering and water thoroughly in the grow season. Fertilize Myrtillocactus geometrizans starting in spring through summer to promote healthy growth and strong root systems.

Sinningia bulleta is tuberous perennial known for its bright orange-red flowers that bloom year-round. It's originally from Brazil where it grows on steep, rocky cliffs. The Sinningia bullata features rosettes of thick, succulent, and velvety leaves that are usually light green with a prominent quilted texture. The leaves can grow up to 6 inches in diameter and have a distinct scalloped edge. Sinningia bullata thrives in bright, indirect light. Place it near a window where it can receive filtered sunlight, but avoid direct exposure to intense sunlight, especially during the hottest part of the day. Watering: Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Water when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch. Ensure that the pot has drainage holes to prevent water accumulation.

Stenocereus beneckei, often called the "Organ Pipe Cactus," is a visually striking cactus known for its tall, cylindrical stems that grow in clusters, mimicking the pipes of an organ. Native to the arid regions of Mexico, this cactus features vibrant green, thickly ribbed columns with well-defined ridges that serve as structural adaptations to conserve water in desert environments. Stenocereus beneckei thrives in bright, direct sunlight and requires well-draining soil to prevent root rot. When watering, allow the soil to dry completely between sessions, as this cactus is drought-tolerant and sensitive to overwatering. During the growing season, water moderately, reducing the frequency in winter when the plant enters dormancy.

A rare and unique cactus, the Tephrocactus geometricus are small low growing globular segmented cactus that grow branched into small clumps. The stems are blueish green that will redden to purple in full sun exposure. New growth is dark purple. Spines are black. This is a very slow growing cactus, only one globe per year may grow. Tephrocactus geometricus prefer lots of sun, at least 4 to 6 hours of direct sun daily. Water only when the soil has dried out completely. Always err on the side of underwatering. Fertilize starting in spring through summer to promote healthy growth and blooms. Like many cacti, Tephrocactus geometricus has low water requirements. Water sparingly, allowing the soil to dry out between watering sessions. Overwatering can lead to root rot, so it's essential to err on the side of underwatering.