Pediocactus simpsonii aka Plains Cactus

Taxonomy

Common names

Plains Cactus, Mountain Cactus, Simpson's Foot Cactus

How to care for Plains Cactus

Difficulty

With its straightforward care requirements, Plains Cactus is a hassle-free plant that anyone can enjoy.

Water

Plains Cactus does best in dry soil and should only be watered sparingly.

Soil

To ensure the health of your Plains Cactus, it's crucial to use a potting soil that won't hold too much moisture. A soil that drains well and contains perlite or vermiculite for drainage and organic matter for nutrition is ideal. Adding a few handfuls of perlite to store-bought cactus soil is an easy way to create this type of soil mix.

Lighting

Plains Cactus thrives in bright and direct sunlight. To ensure your plant receives enough light to survive, place it less than one foot from a window. The current weather in your area may affect the placement in your home. For example, if you live in a region that has longer and more intense periods of sunlight, then you may want to place the plant farther away from the window to avoid direct sunlight and reduce the risk of sunburn. Alternatively, if you live in a region with relatively milder temperatures and less intense sunlight, then you may be able to place the plant closer to the window for increased exposure. Ultimately, the current weather in your area should be taken into consideration when determining the best placement for your Simpson's Foot Cactus.

Toxicity

Plains Cactus is poisonous if ingested. We suggest keeping this plant out of reach if you have children, cats, or dogs in the home.

Humidity

Plains Cactus prefers dry environments, so misting the plant to provide extra humidity and allow water to linger on the leaves can create an ideal environment for fungi that can be harmful.

Fertilizer

The growth rate of Plains Cactus is slow and it doesn't necessitate additional fertilizing. By changing the soil in its pot annually, the plant should be provided with adequate nutrition. It is crucial to keep in mind that plants derive their energy from the sun, not fertilizers.

Growth-pattern

Plains Cactus grows vertically and new growth emerges from the top of the plant.

Region of origin

Plains Cactus’s native range is North America.

Flower

Yes, if you provide it with the correct amount of sunlight and water, you can witness your Plains Cactus blooming.


More info:
Wikipedia