Common Name: Domino Cactus
Botanical Name: Echinopsis subdenudata
If all great things come in small sizes, then the Domino Cactus is the prize winner! This compact cactus will stay small throughout life, making it the perfect desk-top companion for sunny rooms! This glorious green gem will occasionally bloom if given enough light, but only at night. Plan on pulling some all-nighters if you see a little flower bud form! Domino Cactus will get fuller and broader and produce off-shoots that you can remove and replant to get that domino effect! Cactaceae are ideal plants for forgetful waters and some of the best indoor plants for beginners.
Light
For Domino Cactus plants, at least 6 hours per day of bright indirect light is necessary. In nature, this plant thrives most in desert environments where there is an abundance of light, so providing similar amounts of light is a must for it. Established, mature plants of this kind can often handle direct light, but if your plant is younger, it may become scorched if exposed to direct light. It's often best to err on the side of caution and avoid direct light.
Water
Let the soil completely dry out before watering a Domino Cactus plant. This easy-care houseplant prefers more arid conditions, making it a good fit for forgetful plant owners. When it is time to water, saturate the soil until water drains all the way through the soil. Make sure to empty the cache pot and tray, so your plant is not sitting in standing water.
Soil
The potting soil for your Domino Cactus should contain more drainage materials (compared to soils for most indoor plants), such as wood chips, perlite, coarse sand, or pumice – which will let the water drain quickly. Most bagged soil-less potting soil made for indoor plants will work fine but remember that you must let the soil dry out completely before watering it again.
Temperature
Your Domino Cactus will do best in temperatures that are between 60°F (15°C) and 80°F (27°C). Avoid your plant in overly cold temperatures as this plant is sensitive to frost! Frost can damage this plant, or even kill it, so be extra careful with the temperatures that it endures.
Humidity
Domino Cactus plants love to be in high humidity. Ideally, you should aim for humidity levels between 50% and 70%. This range replicates where the plant originally came from. To increase the humidity, you can mist it, group plants together, provide a humidity tray or pebble tray, or use a humidifier.
Fertilizer
Apply fertilizer to your Domino Cactus plant every two to four weeks during the growing season, which is usually spring and summer. Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer with an equal ration of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium. We suggest 10-10-10 or 14-14-14. These ratios help the plants overall health. Always adjust your fertilization routine when it is the fall and winter months. You won’t need to fertilize your plant as often.
Growth Rate
The mature height that your Domino Cactus plant can reach is 6 to 12 inches. This includes both the stem and foliage. However, it all is dependent on the various factors such as providing your plant with the proper care, how often you are watering your plant, and the light being given to your plant.
Pet Friend or Foe
A Domino Cactus is non-toxic to pets! Friend!
Pro Tips
- You should repot your Domino Cactus plant every 2-3 years or when it becomes root bound. Typically, spring is the best time do repot your plant.
- Be extremely careful when handling your Domino Cactus, as it has spines that can be sharp!
- Prune your plant regularly to maintain its overall look and health.
- Reduce how often you water your plant during the colder months of the year.