Family: Cactaceae
Common Name: Rose Quartz Cactus
Botanical Name: Echinopsis ‘Rose Quartz’
Echinopsis 'Rose Quartz' is full of surprises! Lingering beneath the short spines lives a fluorescence sleeping giant of colorful blooms. There is no guarantee that your Rose Quartz Cactus will bloom on command or arrive to you in all its glory. Still, when given over 6 hours of very bright indirect sunlight a day, these drought-tolerant cacti will bring a smile to your face with their neon-fuchsia flowers. Once the flower eruption fizzles out, Echinopsis 'Rose Quartz' will stand proud and erect, gaining energy for the next performance!
Cactaceae, better known as cactus, is a large family of plants that come in many shapes and sizes. They are all effortless to care for, and given the right conditions, many varieties may bloom. Cactus is native to Mexico and the Southwestern U.S. Like most houseplants, they require care similar to what they would experience in nature. Most types, like cerus, cammillaria, and even euphorbia (not a cactus, but is cared for like one!) have similar needs and can be grouped in a brightly lit room to live their best life.
Light
Plenty of bright indirect sunlight is needed to support Rose Quartz 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 sunlight. Read more about how to differentiate between the sometimes confusing indoor plant lighting specifications!
Water
Cactus 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 normal 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 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 are ideal, similar to what the cactus would experience in nature. 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 during the winter.
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 humidity 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. Cacti generally do not need to be fertilized often, and you can use a slow-release fertilizer a the beginning of the growing season if fertilizing is not your thing! Learn more about when and how to fertilize your houseplants!
Growth Rate
Rose Quartz Cactus is a medium-growing, easy-flowering cactus that can form massive clumps in the right conditions. These plants can reach a height of up to six inches. These cacti can survive for decades and far over 300 years if cared for properly.
Pet Friend or Foe
Although the Rose Quartz Cactus is non-toxic to people and animals, its sharp spines can irritate the skin if stroked or eaten. Handle your cactus carefully and keep it away from your pets and children. Friend (but sharp!)
Pro Tips
- As slow-growing houseplants, cacti typically need to be re-potted every other year. Although cacti are alright being root bound, there is usually 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