How to Grow and Care for Cabbage Cactus

Plant Care

Some care is required for this low-maintenance Cabbage Cactus to thrive. Check required care tips for a healthy and beautiful cactus.

Light

The Cabbage Cactus loves sunlight—it thrives in full sun, so be sure the plant gets a warm spot with at least six hours of direct sunlight every day. If it is an indoor cactus, set it by a sunny window where it will soak in lots of rays.

Soil

This plant needs to be planted in some well-draining soil to keep its roots happy. A specific soil mix for cacti or succulents works well, but you can also improve drainage with some sand or perlite in regular potting soil. Do not allow the soil to get soggy; this can cause root rot.

Watering

The Cabbage Cactus does not require frequent watering, just like most other succulents. During the growing season (spring and summer), water well but infrequently, approximately every 2-3 weeks. In the winter, reduce watering, as the cactus enters a phase of dormancy. Between watering, suspending home watering until absolutely needed, and always allowing the soil to dry out completely, will greatly help prevent overwatering.

Pruning

Pruning a cactus can be scary — they have spines! — but it’s really important for improving the plant’s health and look.

• When to Prune: Pruning is best done during the active growth phase, usually in early spring or early summer, when the cactus is at its healthiest. Cut out any dead or damaged growth in the meantime to keep the plant in tiptop shape.
• How to Prune: Trim away unhealthy or unsightly parts with sharp, clean pruning shears. Just be sure to wear thick gloves or use tongs, as the sharp spines can stab or break off seemingly without warning. Pruning isn’t usually necessary, but cutting away any deceased growth allows the cactus to keep its signature circular shape.

Propagating

The Cabbage Cactus can be propagated, though it is slow going and patience is key. The cactus is usually grown from seeds, but this can be difficult.

• From Seed: In spring, place seeds in a shallow tray with a well-draining mix formulated for cacti and succulents. Press the seeds into the soil lightly without covering, as they require light to germinate. Keep the soil damp but not soggy, and set the tray in a bright spot out of direct sun. Germination can take a few weeks to a few months, so patience is key.
• Offsets (not that common): Sometimes the Cabbage Cactus will produce offsets or “pups” around its base. When this happens, gently pull the pups away from the mother plant, leaving some roots attached. Then, pot them separately into another container.

Growing in Pots

If you have limited space, or want to have your cactus indoors, then growing it potted is a good option. And it simplifies the task of moving the cactus indoors during the colder months if you live in a region out of the plant’s hardiness zone.

• Select a Pot with a Drainage Hole: Look for a pot that has a drainage hole at the bottom to provide room for excess water to find its way out. Choose a pot that is about a size larger than the cactus so that it does not allow over watering.
• Soil: Well-draining cactus or succulent mix. You can also mix sand into regular potting soil to improve drainage.
• Watering: If they are in a pot, the Cabbage Cactus will need less water as the soil retains moisture longer. Let the soil dry out completely between waterings—overwatering in pots can encourage root rot fast.

Overwintering

If you happen to live in a cold climate with temperatures in winter dropping to below 20°F, you will have to bring your Cabbage cactus inside during the winter months.

• Indoor Care: Before the first frost, bring your cactus inside and put it in a sunny spot (think south-facing window). In winter, the plant will become dormant, so you won’t need to water it often — once a month typically suffices.
• Outdoor Care: For folks with warm climate (zones 9-11) locations, you can leave your Cabbage Cactus outside year-round. But be sure that it is protected from heavy rain, because too much moisture can make it rot.

Blooming

The Cabbage Cactus can bloom, but it’s an infrequent event. Its blooms are stunning when it does flower (it has big yellow blooms).

• Bloom Time: The cactus usually blooms in late spring or early summer, but it’s not something that occurs regularly.

How to Induce Blooming: Provide adequate bright sunlight and care during the growth period to help if the cactus is still not blooming. Just keep in mind that Cabbage Cactus are more appreciated for their shape and spiny texture than their flowers.

Common Issues

While the Cabbage Cactus is quite low-maintenance, some common problems can occur.

• Overwatering: The most common mistake that anyone can do with a Cabbage cactus care is overwatering. This can cause root rot and eventually kill the plant. Always let the soil completely dry before watering again.
• Sunburn: If you put your cactus outside, and it has remains inside for quite a long time, it might get some sunburn. To prevent this situation, slowly acclimate the cactus to direct sunlight.

Pests: Aphids and mealybugs are rare pests that may invade your cactus. Check for small white fuzz or sticky residue on the plant, and treat it with insecticidal soap or rubbing alcohol.

Summary

Whether it’s known as the Cabbage Cactus or the Golden Barrel, the dramatic impact this plant has on any room is undeniable. It's distinct rolling ball-shape, brightly colored golden spines and survivalist attitude to drought and high heat make it a talking point addition to any space with minimal effort. From sun-soaked patio, to minimalist digs or even a desert-themed garden, the Cabbage Cactus illustrates that we don't always have to choose between a beauty and a beast of a plant. With a little bit of light, soil and water, the sculptural cactus will thrive — and who knows, maybe bloom for you, an event witnessed by few.