Common Names: Rainbow Burst Cactus
Botanical Names: Echinobivia 'Rainbow Bursts'
This rotund and perfectly formed Rainbow Cactus has a lot going on! The playful round form will start to change as it develops offshoots at the base of the plant, and over time, it will be sitting in a nest of miniature Rainbow Bursts! These indoor plants love neglect. Water them thoroughly when completely dry and place them in a spot that gets at least 6 hours of sunlight daily. There is a good chance they will produce flowers in the spring and early summer if they get enough light!
Light
Plenty of bright indirect sunlight is needed to support Cacti. These indoor plants like lots of light, even during the winter months. Some varieties of Cactus can handle direct light, but be careful because direct light can be damaging, especially for young plants or new growth. When in doubt, it's always best to keep Cactus houseplants in bright indirect light.
Water
Rainbow Burst Cacti are drought-tolerant houseplants, and the soil must be allowed to dry out between watering. Water as soon as the soil is completely dry throughout while the plant actively grows during the spring and summer. Cacti can go for extended periods without water during winter when the plant may become dormant. It is typical for a cactus to go 1-2 months between watering, depending on the size of the plant and the overall conditions, like temperature and sunlight.
When you do water, drench the soil, and empty the cache pot or saucer of standing water. Cacti are susceptible to root rot if they receive too much water, and the threshold for over-watering is relatively low. It is often better to under-water than over-water, so if the plant is not showing signs of dehydration and you're unsure about when to water, there is no harm in waiting a few more days.
Soil
Almost all types of cacti need soil with excellent drainage. There are a variety of soil mixtures for cactus available; be sure to choose one that incorporates at least ½ drainage materials. Cacti should never be planted in dense soil mixtures with moisture-retaining crystals. You can use a universal potting soil for cacti, but reduce the watering frequency when using this type of soil as it will retain water longer than cactus soil blends.
Temperature
Warm temperatures, similar to what the Cactus would experience in nature, are ideal. Generally, anything above 50°F is fine, but the plant will be happier if kept in an area of at least 65°F. Chilly drafts can be a problem, so keep a cactus plant clear of exterior doors and drafty locations.
Humidity
Dry conditions are best for Cactus houseplants. Cacti are not very adaptable when it comes to humidity and prefer to be in areas without increased dampness in the air. Low or average moisture is ideal. Avoid placing Cactus plants in bathrooms, kitchens, or areas prone to increased humidity.
Fertilizer
Cactus are not heavy feeders but use a diluted liquid fertilizer monthly during the growing season to help the plant push out new growth. Stop fertilizing Cactus houseplants during the winter when the plant is not actively growing.
Growth Rate
The Rainbow Bursts Cactus is a slow-growing plant and increases in size up to 3 to 5 feet at its maturity. To ensure its optimal health, plant it in full sunlight. The cacti will flourish during the summertime of the winter zone if you take good care of the plant.
Pet Friend or Foe
The Rainbow Bursts Cactus plants have spikes and thorns, so keep them away from small children and pets. It's a foe.
Pro Tips
- As slow-growing houseplants, Cacti typically need to be re-potted every other year. Although Cacti are alright root bound, there is typically no rush to re-pot. When it is time to re-pot, wear thick gloves to protect your hands and select a pot that is 1-2 inches larger in diameter than the existing pot.
- A dormancy or rest period during the winter can help promote new growth and possibly even blooms during the growing season. Give the plant time to rest by cutting back on the water and avoiding placing the plant in areas with hot temperatures during the winter.
- Mature and healthy plants will send out offshoots or pups. These can be removed and propagated. It is best to remove an offshoot when re-potting. Using clean shears or a knife, remove the offshoot and let the cut end callous over for a few days before re-potting the new plant in its own pot.