Plants

Top 47 Flowering Cactus Varieties for Stunning Blooms

Cacti are more than just desert dwellers with spiky exteriors – many of them bloom into some of the most striking flowers in the plant world. Flowering cactus plants are incredibly diverse, not only in their appearance but in the wide range of colors, shapes, and sizes they come in.

Whether you’re an experienced gardener or a beginner, cacti are a fantastic addition to any garden due to their ease of care, drought tolerance, and captivating blossoms. Let’s dive into 47 of the best flowering cacti that will bring an explosion of color and interest to your space.

1. Schlosser Cactus (Parodia schlosseri)

Botanical Name: Parodia schlosseri
Flowering Time: Summer
Height: 6-8 inches
Native to: South America

This spherical cactus variety is a stunning addition to any garden, with its coppery spines and vibrant lemon-yellow flowers. The Schlosser Cactus is a small, low-maintenance plant that thrives in sunny environments with well-draining soil. Its beautiful flowers and compact size make it perfect for both novice gardeners and seasoned cactus enthusiasts.

2. Twin-Spine Cactus (Mammillaria geminispina)

Botanical Name: Mammillaria geminispina
Flowering Time: Summer
Height: 6-8 inches
Native to: Mexico

The Twin-Spine Cactus is a rounded, mounding variety that is covered in silver spines. Its attractive pink flowers bloom in the summer, adding color to any garden or container. This cactus is one of the best flowering cactus plants, with its compact size and vibrant blooms making it an ideal choice for those looking to add color and texture to smaller spaces.

3. Dwarf Turk’s Cap Cactus (Melocactus matanzanus)

Botanical Name: Melocactus matanzanus
Flowering Time: Spring and Summer
Height: 4-6 inches
Native to: Cuba

The Dwarf Turk’s Cap Cactus is a rare and endangered species found in Cuba. It is a tiny variety with a slow growth rate and is characterized by copper-hued spines and pink blossoms. Despite its small size, it produces beautiful, striking flowers that make it an attractive addition to any cactus collection. It thrives in well-draining soil and requires bright, indirect light for optimal growth.

4. Sulcorebutia Cactus (Sulcorebutia albissima)

Botanical Name: Sulcorebutia albissima
Flowering Time: Late Spring
Height: 4-6 inches
Native to: Bolivia

The Sulcorebutia Cactus is a small and compact cactus known for its dense, tightly crisscrossed spines that create a striking texture. This cold-tolerant plant thrives in dry, sunny conditions and is perfect for both beginner and experienced gardeners. It produces a mass of vivid pink flowers that bloom abundantly in late spring, making it a highly decorative plant. Its ability to thrive in cooler climates makes it a great option for areas that experience colder temperatures, adding versatility to your cactus collection.

6. Balloon Cactus (Notocactus magnificus)

Botanical Name: Notocactus magnificus
Flowering Time: Spring and Summer
Height: 8-12 inches
Native to: South America

The Balloon Cactus is an intriguing cactus variety with unique, globe-shaped bodies that are covered in both spines and wool, giving them a soft, textured appearance. When placed outdoors in bright sunlight, this cactus develops sulfur-yellow flowers that complement its spiky yet inviting exterior. It’s a relatively low-maintenance cactus that thrives in well-draining soil and requires only minimal care. Due to its distinct look, it makes for a great focal point in any cactus garden or succulent collection.

7. Spiny Pincushion Cactus (Mammillaria spinosissima)

Botanical Name: Mammillaria spinosissima
Flowering Time: Spring
Height: 6-12 inches
Native to: Mexico

The Spiny Pincushion Cactus, a native of Mexico, is a small cactus known for its stunning bright pink, funnel-shaped flowers. These flowers bloom in spring, creating a beautiful contrast against its spiny body. This cactus typically forms a dense cluster of columnar or spherical stems, and its central spines are red-brown or yellow, giving it a striking appearance. Despite its spines, it’s an easy-to-care-for cactus that thrives in well-drained soil and plenty of sunlight.

9. Spider Cactus (Gymnocalycium oehnanthemum x horstii)

Botanical Name: Gymnocalycium oehnanthemum x horstii
Flowering Time: Summer
Height: 4-6 inches
Native to: South America

The Spider Cactus is a fascinating variety, distinguished by its stumpy, globe-like shape and long, curly spines that resemble spider legs. When it blooms, it produces large, vibrant pink flowers, making it one of the standout flowering cacti. This variety is perfect for gardeners looking for a compact cactus that doesn’t sacrifice beauty for size. It thrives in a sunny spot and is well-suited to both pots and garden beds.

10. Lincoln Gem Cactus (Chamaelobivia ‘Lincoln Gem’)

Botanical Name: Chamaelobivia ‘Lincoln Gem’
Flowering Time: Summer and Winter
Height: 6-8 inches
Native to: Hybrid

A fast-growing cactus that produces clusters of long, columnar stems, the Lincoln Gem Cactus is a beautiful addition to any collection. Its bright yellow flowers bloom during both the summer and winter months, making it a year-round source of color. This cactus variety is easy to grow and requires minimal care, making it ideal for both beginners and experienced cactus enthusiasts. It thrives in full sun and well-draining soil.

11. Claret Cup Cactus (Echinocereus triglochidiatus)

Botanical Name: Echinocereus triglochidiatus
Flowering Time: Summer
Height: 1-2 feet
Native to: Southwestern United States

The Claret Cup Cactus is known for its striking orange-red flowers that bloom on top of its green, spiny cactus body. These vibrant blooms appear in late spring or early summer, making this cactus a colorful addition to any garden. Not only does it look stunning, but it also produces edible fruits that have a juicy, strawberry-like flavor. This hardy cactus is drought-tolerant and thrives in sunny, dry environments, making it ideal for low-maintenance gardens.

13. Mammillaria Cactus (Mammillaria guelzowiana)

Botanical Name: Mammillaria guelzowiana
Flowering Time: Summer
Height: 3-6 inches
Native to: Mexico

The Mammillaria Cactus is a globe-shaped species that is densely covered with spines. It produces bell-shaped, fragrant pink-purple flowers that are both visually appealing and aromatic. This cactus is perfect for small spaces or containers, making it ideal for balconies or patios. Like most cacti, it thrives in full sunlight and requires well-draining soil to flourish. Its low-maintenance nature makes it an excellent choice for novice gardeners.

14. Powder Puff Cactus (Parodia nivosa)

Botanical Name: Parodia nivosa
Flowering Time: Summer
Height: 6-8 inches
Native to: South America

The Powder Puff Cactus, known for its charming appearance, is a small plant coated with long white spines. It produces bright red-orange flowers, which provide a striking contrast to its soft, spiny texture. This cactus thrives in sunny spots with well-drained soil. While it’s a small cactus, its vibrant flowers make a big impact, adding color and texture to any collection.

15. Rosy Pincushion Cactus (Mammillaria zeilmanniana)

Botanical Name: Mammillaria zeilmanniana
Flowering Time: Year-round
Height: 3-4 inches
Native to: Mexico

The Rosy Pincushion Cactus is famous for its prolific blooms of pretty pink flowers, which can appear on and off throughout the year. Its compact, globe-like shape and the dense coverage of spines make it an attractive specimen for indoor and outdoor gardens alike. This variety thrives in bright, indirect light and well-draining soil, making it an easy-care cactus that brightens up any space year-round.

17. Bishop’s Hat Cactus (Astrophytum myriostigma)

Botanical Name: Astrophytum myriostigma
Flowering Time: Summer
Height: 6-12 inches
Native to: Mexico

The Bishop’s Hat Cactus is a fascinating species that stands out due to its spineless body, making it a “pain-free” cactus to handle. Its star-shaped appearance is complemented by beautiful yellow flowers that sometimes feature a red center. This cactus variety is incredibly easy to grow, making it a favorite among both novice and seasoned gardeners. With minimal care, the Bishop’s Hat Cactus will thrive in sunny conditions, adding a unique architectural touch to any cactus collection.

18. Monk’s Hood Cactus (Astrophytum ornatum)

Botanical Name: Astrophytum ornatum
Flowering Time: Summer
Height: 8-12 inches
Native to: Mexico

Native to the canyons and limestone cliffs of Mexico, the Monk’s Hood Cactus is an easy-to-grow and fast-growing species. Its ribbed stem is adorned with white flakes, which give it a distinct look. The yellow flowers that bloom in summer are both vibrant and cheerful, making this cactus a popular choice for gardeners looking to add a touch of color to their cactus collection. This variety thrives in well-draining soil and full sunlight, requiring minimal attention once established.

20. Mammillaria dasyacantha Cactus (Mammillaria laui v. dasyacantha)

Botanical Name: Mammillaria laui v. dasyacantha
Flowering Time: Summer
Height: 4-6 inches
Native to: Mexico

The Mammillaria dasyacantha Cactus is a small, compact cactus covered in wool-like, white spines. It produces striking pink flowers with yellow centers, adding a beautiful pop of color to any cactus collection. This variety is perfect for small spaces, container gardens, or as a decorative accent on windowsills. With the right growing conditions, the Mammillaria dasyacantha Cactus will thrive and produce a stunning display of vibrant pink blooms that enhance its visual appeal.

21. Aylostera Cactus (Rebutia narvaecensis)

Botanical Name: Rebutia narvaecensis
Flowering Time: Spring
Height: 4-5 inches
Native to: Bolivia

The Aylostera Cactus is a small, spherical cactus known for its large, pink flowers that create a stunning contrast against its green body. This cactus is easy to grow and thrives in dry, sunny conditions. It naturally seeds freely, forming charming clumping groups that look fantastic in a cactus garden or as part of a mixed succulent arrangement. The Aylostera Cactus is one of the best flowering cacti for adding vibrant color to your garden throughout the spring season.

22. Aylostera narvaecensis Cactus (Rebutia heliosa)

Botanical Name: Rebutia heliosa
Flowering Time: Spring
Height: 3-5 inches
Native to: Bolivia

This small cactus species is native to Bolivia and features dark green foliage that contrasts beautifully with its white spines. The Aylostera narvaecensis Cactus blooms with stunning orange, daisy-like flowers, which add an eye-catching touch to any collection. This variety is perfect for both indoor and outdoor gardening, as it thrives in bright sunlight and well-drained soil.

23. Golden Barrel Cactus (Echinocactus grusonii)

Botanical Name: Echinocactus grusonii
Flowering Time: Summer and Fall
Height: 2-3 feet
Native to: Mexico

The Golden Barrel Cactus is a globe-shaped cactus that is native to Mexico. It features bright green stems with spiked ribs, and the contrasting yellow-colored areoles pair perfectly with its bright yellow blooms. This cactus is known for its striking appearance and is often used as a focal point in both desert and tropical gardens. It thrives in full sunlight and well-drained soil, and its large blooms make it an eye-catching addition to any space.

25. Old Lady Cactus (Mammillaria hahniana)

Botanical Name: Mammillaria hahniana
Flowering Time: Spring and Summer
Height: 6-8 inches
Native to: Mexico

The Old Lady Cactus is a popular species that forms a dense cluster of columnar or spherical stems, covered in fine, white spines. It produces beautiful funnel-shaped pink flowers that bloom during the spring and summer months. This cactus thrives in dry, sunny conditions and is ideal for both container gardens and ground planting. Its low-maintenance nature makes it a great option for cactus enthusiasts of all experience levels.

26. Chin Cactus (Gymnocalycium neuhuberi)

Botanical Name: Gymnocalycium neuhuberi
Flowering Time: Spring and Summer
Height: 4-6 inches
Native to: Argentina

The Chin Cactus is a round-shaped, blue-green cactus with slightly curved spines that start as rich amber and gradually fade to cream. It produces fragrant, fuchsia-colored blooms in the spring and summer, making it a fragrant addition to any cactus garden. This cactus thrives in well-drained soil and full sunlight, making it an excellent choice for those looking to grow a flowering cactus indoors or outdoors.

27. Mexican Fire Barrel Cactus (Ferocactus pilosus)

Botanical Name: Ferocactus pilosus
Flowering Time: Summer and Fall
Height: 2-3 feet
Native to: Mexico

The Mexican Fire Barrel Cactus is an eye-catching variety known for its thick, red spines that contrast beautifully with its bright flowers. Initially, this cactus forms a globular shape, but as it matures, it gradually grows taller, making it a fantastic focal point in the garden. During the summer and fall, it produces vibrant red and yellow flowers that stand out against its spiny body. Ideal for warm climates, it thrives in full sunlight and well-drained soil, making it a perfect addition to low-maintenance cactus collections.

28. Christmas Cactus (Schlumbergera bridgesii)

Botanical Name: Schlumbergera bridgesii
Flowering Time: Winter
Height: 12-24 inches
Native to: Brazil

The Christmas Cactus is a festive favorite, especially during the holiday season. This succulent produces flat, segmented stems with subtle notches along the edges. It blooms with beautiful pink and red flowers that emerge from the ends of the stem segments. Native to the humid, forested regions of Brazil, it thrives in cooler environments and requires a bit more humidity compared to traditional desert cacti. It’s best grown in partial sunlight, and its ability to bloom during the winter months makes it a perfect indoor plant for adding a pop of color during the colder season.

29. Fairy Castle Cactus (Acanthocereus tetragonus)

Botanical Name: Acanthocereus tetragonus
Flowering Time: Spring and Summer
Height: 2-3 feet
Native to: North America

The Fairy Castle Cactus is a small, columnar cactus that looks like something out of a fantasy tale. Its five-sided stems grow upward and are adorned with short, white spines that give it a delicate, fairy-like appearance. This cactus variety produces either white or yellow flowers in spring and summer, which add to its whimsical charm. The Fairy Castle Cactus is perfect for smaller gardens or containers, where it can be admired for both its unique form and its beautiful blossoms.

30. Starfish Cactus (Stapelia grandiflora)

Botanical Name: Stapelia grandiflora
Flowering Time: Summer
Height: 6-8 inches
Native to: South Africa

Also known as the Carrion Flower, the Starfish Cactus is famous for its unusual, five-petaled flowers that range in color from red to brown. These flowers are often likened to the shape of a starfish, hence the name. Unlike other cacti, the Starfish Cactus has soft, fleshy stems and no spines, making it an easy plant to handle. While its flowers are visually striking, they emit a strong odor that attracts pollinators like flies and beetles. This cactus thrives in full sun and well-draining soil, and is ideal for gardeners looking for something unique.

31. Easter Cactus (Hatiora gaertneri)

Botanical Name: Hatiora gaertneri
Flowering Time: Spring
Height: 12-18 inches
Native to: Brazil

The Easter Cactus is a popular spring-flowering cactus, well-known for its vibrant red blooms that appear around the time of Easter. This cactus produces small, rounded stem segments with slight notches along the edges, which set it apart from other cacti. The bright red flowers emerge from the tips of the stems, making a striking display when in bloom. It prefers indirect sunlight and slightly cooler temperatures, making it an excellent indoor plant. Its ability to bloom in early spring makes it a festive addition to any home.

32. Dwarf Easter Cactus (Hatiora rosea)

Botanical Name: Hatiora rosea
Flowering Time: Spring
Height: 6-12 inches
Native to: Brazil

Related to the Easter Cactus, the Dwarf Easter Cactus is a compact and bushy plant that produces abundant, aromatic pink flowers in spring. It’s perfect for smaller spaces, such as windowsills or small pots. Like its relative, this cactus thrives in partial sunlight and cool temperatures. The Dwarf Easter Cactus is ideal for those who want the beauty of the Easter Cactus but in a more compact form that’s easier to manage indoors.

33. Ladyfinger Cactus (Mammillaria elongata)

Botanical Name: Mammillaria elongata
Flowering Time: Spring and Summer
Height: 8-12 inches
Native to: Mexico

The Ladyfinger Cactus, also known as the Gold Lace Cactus, is a unique, diminutive variety that grows in a way that resembles ladyfingers. This cactus produces beautiful white flowers in the spring and summer months. It is characterized by its elongated, yellowish spines that cover its cylindrical stems. Due to its compact size and striking appearance, the Ladyfinger Cactus makes an excellent addition to any collection, whether planted in a garden or kept in a decorative pot indoors.

34. Beavertail Cactus (Optunia basilaris)

Botanical Name: Optunia basilaris
Flowering Time: Spring and Summer
Height: 6-12 inches
Native to: Southwestern United States

The Beavertail Cactus is a type of prickly pear cactus with broad, flat, blue-green pads that give it a distinctive appearance. In the spring and summer, it blooms with dark cherry pink flowers that emit a sweet watermelon-like fragrance. This cactus is known for its drought tolerance and ability to thrive in hot, dry conditions. Its vibrant blooms and unique form make it an ideal addition to xeriscapes or desert gardens, where it requires minimal water once established.

35. Strawberry Hedgehog Cactus (Echinocereus engelmannii)

Botanical Name: Echinocereus engelmannii
Flowering Time: Summer
Height: 8-12 inches
Native to: Southwestern United States

The Strawberry Hedgehog Cactus, also known as the Purple Torch or Saint’s Cactus, is a small cactus with free-branching stems covered in decorative spines. It produces tubular flowers that range from magenta to pale pink, providing a stunning visual display. This cactus variety is perfect for those looking for a colorful addition to their cactus garden. Its vibrant flowers and ornamental spines make it a standout, and it is easy to grow in well-draining soil with plenty of sunlight.

38. Silver Torch Cactus (Cleistocactus strausii)

Botanical Name: Cleistocactus strausii
Flowering Time: Spring and Summer
Height: 3-4 feet
Native to: Bolivia

The Silver Torch Cactus is an award-winning variety known for its striking appearance. It forms slender, erect columns covered in a stunning white-silver sheen, making it a standout in any cactus collection. During the spring and summer, it produces magenta-colored flowers that create a beautiful contrast against its silver body. This cactus thrives in dry, sunny conditions and well-draining soil, making it an easy-to-care-for plant. Its unique, elegant look adds both texture and color to gardens or patios.

39. Crested Twin Spined Cactus (Mammillaria geminispina nobilis f. cristata)

Botanical Name: Mammillaria geminispina nobilis f. cristata
Flowering Time: Summer and Fall
Height: 6-8 inches
Native to: Mexico

One of the most famous cacti, the Crested Twin Spined Cactus is beloved for its display of dense white spines with very fine hair that gives it a wool-like texture. Its unique, crest-like shape makes it a highly sought-after variety for collectors. In summer and fall, it produces beautiful pink-red flowers with dark midveins, adding vibrant color to its striking appearance. This cactus thrives in full sun and well-draining soil, and with proper care, it can grow into an impressive specimen that adds intrigue to any cactus collection.

40. Mammillaria laui Cactus (Mammillaria laui dasyacantha)

Botanical Name: Mammillaria laui dasyacantha
Flowering Time: Summer
Height: 4-6 inches
Native to: Mexico

The Mammillaria laui Cactus is a compact cactus variety with slender, soft-to-the-touch central spines. It produces large flowers in deep pink colors, which are impressive when compared to its small size. This cactus is perfect for adding a pop of color to smaller spaces, like windowsills or small containers. Like most cacti, it thrives in well-draining soil and requires minimal watering, making it a low-maintenance plant that is easy to care for.

41. Dutchman’s Pipe Cactus (Epiphyllum oxypetalum)

Botanical Name: Epiphyllum oxypetalum
Flowering Time: Summer
Height: 6-8 feet
Native to: Mexico

The Dutchman’s Pipe Cactus, also known as the Queen of the Night, is a large, epiphytic cactus known for its exotic white flowers that bloom at night. The flowers are large, fragrant, and typically open in the late evening, adding an air of mystery and beauty to your garden. This cactus requires bright, indirect light and well-draining soil. It thrives in hanging baskets or containers, where it can display its stunning night-blooming flowers.

42. Lobivia Cactus (Lobivia famatimensis)

Botanical Name: Lobivia famatimensis
Flowering Time: Summer
Height: 4-6 inches
Native to: Bolivia

The Lobivia Cactus is a small, globular cactus that produces canary yellow flowers during the summer. While this cactus is petite in size, it makes a big impact with its bright, cheerful blooms. It is well-suited for small spaces and container gardens, where its striking flowers can be admired. The Lobivia Cactus thrives in full sun and well-drained soil, making it an easy-to-care-for addition to any cactus lover’s collection.

43. Orchid Cactus (Epiphyllum hybrids or Phyllocactus)

Botanical Name: Epiphyllum hybrids or Phyllocactus
Flowering Time: Summer
Height: 18-24 inches
Native to: Central America

The Orchid Cactus is a stunning variety admired for its large, striking flowers, which come in shades of pink, red, white, orange, and yellow. These 4-inch flowers bloom in the summer and are typically grown in hanging baskets, making them perfect for indoor spaces or patios. The Orchid Cactus is an epiphytic cactus, meaning it naturally grows in the shaded underbrush of forests, so it thrives in indirect sunlight and needs well-draining, slightly acidic soil.

44. Peanut Cactus (Chamaecereus silvestrii or Echinopsis chamaecereus)

Botanical Name: Chamaecereus silvestrii or Echinopsis chamaecereus
Flowering Time: Spring and Summer
Height: 4-6 inches
Native to: Argentina

The Peanut Cactus is a low-growing, cylindrical cactus that stands out with its vase-shaped, bright red flowers. It’s an excellent choice for smaller spaces, as it thrives in small pots or containers. The Peanut Cactus is well-known for its unique, bushy appearance, with multiple stems that are covered in fine spines. This cactus produces vibrant red blooms that emerge in spring and summer, adding a stunning pop of color to any indoor or outdoor garden. It’s an easy-to-care-for cactus, requiring only well-draining soil and a sunny spot to grow.

45. Rat Tail Cactus (Aporocactus flagelliformis)

Botanical Name: Aporocactus flagelliformis
Flowering Time: Spring and Summer
Height: 2-3 feet
Native to: Mexico

The Rat Tail Cactus is a showy cactus that features long, trailing stems, which give it a unique and dramatic appearance. During the spring and summer months, it blooms wide, tubular flowers in shades of violet-red, though it can sometimes produce eccentric colors like pink and orange. This cactus is perfect for hanging baskets or containers where its cascading stems can be admired. The Rat Tail Cactus thrives in sunny spots and requires minimal care, making it an excellent choice for both beginners and experienced gardeners.

46. Moonlight Cactus (Selenicereus spinulosus)

Botanical Name: Selenicereus spinulosus
Flowering Time: Spring to Summer
Height: 2-3 feet
Native to: Mexico

The Moonlight Cactus is a creeping cactus that thrives in bright, indirect light and features cylindrical, blue-green stems. It produces striking red flowers that open only at night, making it a perfect choice for evening gardens or windowsills where it can be admired in the evening light. This cactus variety is easy to care for, requiring only well-draining soil and regular watering. Its night-blooming flowers create a stunning display, especially in moonlit gardens or on patios during summer nights.

47. Mammillaria Polyedra Cactus (Mammillaria polyedra)

Botanical Name: Mammillaria polyedra
Flowering Time: Summer and Winter
Height: 4-6 inches
Native to: Mexico

The Mammillaria Polyedra Cactus is a compact cactus that starts as a single plant and grows into a dense cluster over time. It produces tiny flowers in red-pink colors, making it a delightful addition to succulent gardens or mixed plant collections. This cactus thrives in bright light and requires minimal maintenance, making it an excellent choice for gardeners looking for low-care plants. Due to its small size, it’s ideal for containers or windowsills, where it can be enjoyed both indoors and outdoors.

May 7, 2025May 7, 2025 Cynthia