Brain Cactus

If you’re a fan of quirky plants, you’d probably appreciate the brain cactus.

It has long, twisted pads that look like a brain or snakes.

At only about 6 inches tall and less than 1 foot wide, this cactus makes for a fun gift or addition to a succulent collection.

Botanical name: Mammillaria elongata cristata

Other names: Crested lady finger cactus

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Brain cactus is a small cactus that can grow to 6 inches tall and 1 foot wide.

It’s a crested form of the Mammillaria elongata, meaning the cactus has been mutated and has irregular growth. This mutation is what gives the brain cactus its strange, curled, and twisted ridges that it is famous for. In contrast, Mammillaria elongata- also known as lady finger cactus- grows in long, vertical stems that look like fingers.

Dark green stems are covered in numerous, very short, white, yellow, or brown spines that are not very sharp.

Light pink flowers when in bloom.

Followed by small, oval fruits that contain seeds.

Makes for a fun addition to a cactus or succulent collection due to its strange form.

Accentuate the plant’s shape by keeping it in a small container. Use a container that looks like a face or head to make it extra fun.

Great houseplant due to its small size. Provide bright sunlight.

Keep it in shade during the summer if grown outdoors in the Palm Springs region so it doesn’t get burnt. Best if brought indoors during extreme heat.

Brain cactus is from warm and dry regions in central Mexico.

Caring for brain cactus is easy and is similar to caring for the typical cactus. The main issue is overwatering.

Soil: Loose, well-draining soil that is lightly fertile.

Temperature: Can withstand temperatures down to 28 degrees Fahrenheit.

Water: Occasional, deep watering. Allow the soil to completely dry out between waterings. Either use a moisture meter or stick your finger through the soil to gauge the moisture level. It’s better to err on the side of underwatering than overwatering.

Sun: Full sun. Partial shade in Palm Springs region.

Pests: Minimal pests. Fungal diseases from root rot, dry rot, and harsh weather conditions.

Signs of overwatering: Drooping, squishy texture (especially an the bottom of the cactus)

Signs of too little water: Shriveling, drying skin

Signs of too much sun: Burning, scarring, fading color

Signs of too little sun: Etiolation, discoloring

You can try to propagate via offsets, but they may not grow in the crested form.

How much does Brain Cactus cost?

At our nursery, brain cactus costs $15 for a 1-gallon container and $45 for a 5-gallon container.

Prices are subject to change. Please contact us for the most up-to-date information on pricing. We may have larger sizes available. We provide installation services locally at a separate cost.

Is brain cactus rare?

Yes, brain cactus is somewhat rare and not sold widely in many local plant stores.

Can I grow brain Cactus inside?

Yes, it can be grown indoors as long as it gets full sun.