Cactus Blog Archives

Cactus in the News


A close-up of a cactus in a desert landscape, with more cacti in the background under a clear blue sky. The sunlight highlights the cactus’s spiky, yellow-green branches—a striking update for any cactus news enthusiast.

From SFGate.com

Only one U.S. state has recorded a death by cactus, and that is Arizona. In 1982, 27-year-old David Grundman was famously crushed after a saguaro cactus fell on him. Grundman and a friend had been illegally shooting at the massive plant — which can grow as tall as 60 feet and weigh thousands of pounds — when it toppled, pinning and ultimately killing the man. (more…)

Read More...
Read More...

Ivory Towering Succulent Stems


A close-up of a unique, plump succulent with overlapping, rounded leaves spiraling like an Ivory Tower, its succulent stems rooted in rocky soil against a black background.

Crassula plegmatoides is a compact, dwarf succulent with unusual leaf pairs that are tightly stacked along a short stem, creating a segmented texture. The leaves are bluish-gray and often covered with a fine powdery bloom, helping to reduce water loss in its arid native habitat of South Africa. This slow-growing species remains small, typically forming dense, clustered mounds. In late winter to early spring, it may produce tiny, star-shaped white or pink flowers at the tip of its stems. (more…)

Read More...
Read More...

Pancho, ie Euphorbia Anoplia


A close-up of a green Euphorbia Anoplia succulent cactus with prominent ridges and small spines along the edges, surrounded by similar smaller cacti, set in a pot with rocky soil against a black background.

Euphorbia anoplia, commonly known as the Pancho Cactus, is a unique succulent native to South Africa. Despite its cactus-like appearance, it belongs to the Euphorbiaceae family and is not a true cactus. This compact, clump-forming species features ribbed, upright green stems with prominent vertical ridges and small, spine-like projections along the edges, giving it a visually striking, geometric look. The stems are typically 4–6 inches (10–15 cm) and may flush with red or purple hues in bright light or under stress. At the top of the stems, it produces small, reddish-purple cyathia (the characteristic Euphorbia floral structure), adding a delicate contrast to the rugged texture of the plant. (more…)

Read More...
Read More...

Cardón Grande Flowers


A close-up of a white cactus flower with pale pink edges, one of the stunning Cardón Grande flowers, blooming from a green, spiny cactus stem against a black background.

Echinopsis terscheckii, also known as the Argentine saguaro or cardón grande, produces large, striking flowers that bloom primarily in spring and early summer. These funnel-shaped blossoms are typically white and can reach up to 8 inches (20 cm) in diameter. They open at night and often remain open into the next morning, attracting nocturnal pollinators like moths and bats.

(more…)

Read More...
Read More...

Who knew Cactus Buds were so Pretty! It’s a Parodia!


A small, round Parodia erubescens cactus with sharp spines and several pale pink flower buds growing from the top, set in a pot with brown pebbles against a black background.

Parodia erubescens is a small, globular cactus native to South America, particularly Brazil. It typically grows to about 10 cm in height and 6–8 cm in diameter, with pronounced ribs lined with clusters of short, yellowish spines. In summer, it produces vivid red to orange flowers at the crown, which contrast beautifully with its green body. This cactus prefers bright, indirect light and well-draining soil, thriving with minimal watering—especially in winter when it’s dormant. It’s a popular choice for cactus collectors due to its vibrant blooms and compact form.

(more…)

Read More...
Read More...

Epiphyllum Orchid Cactus Flower Bud


Close-up of several potted cactus and succulent plants, featuring green stems with hints of red and yellow, growing in soil mixed with bark chips, against a softly blurred indoor background.

The Epiphyllum, commonly known as the Orchid Cactus, is celebrated for its strikingly beautiful and fragrant flowers. These blooms are large, often spanning up to 6 to 8 inches in diameter, and come in a dazzling range of colors including white, pink, red, yellow, and purple. Their petals are delicately layered, creating an exotic, almost ethereal appearance. Many varieties bloom at night, filling the air with a sweet, intoxicating scent that attracts pollinators like moths and bats. The flowers typically emerge in late spring to early summer and last for only a day or two, making each bloom a special event.

A close-up of a large, pale pink cactus flower with long, delicate petals and white stamens, blooming indoors among green leaves and potted plants.

(more…)

Read More...
Read More...

Botanical Pencils in the Pencil-Cactus-like Euphorbia Family


Dense cluster of pencil-thin, branching succulent stems in shades of orange, yellow, and green—likely a pencil cactus (Euphorbia tirucalli), also known as milk bush—with sunlight highlighting the plant’s vibrant colors.

Euphorbia tirucalli, commonly known as the pencil cactus or milk bush, is a succulent plant belonging to the family Euphorbiaceae. Native to parts of Africa and India, this plant thrives in arid and semi-arid climates, adapting well to poor, sandy soils. Its distinctive appearance comes from its green, cylindrical, pencil-thick branches that grow upright and densely, with small, inconspicuous leaves that fall off quickly, leaving the green stems as the main photosynthetic organs. Like many Euphorbias, it exudes a milky latex sap when cut, which is toxic and can cause skin irritation or eye damage upon contact.
(more…)

Read More...
Read More...

Common Succulent Plants like the Jade Plant


A Crassula ovata, commonly known as a jade plant, with thick, oval-shaped leaves edged in red, grows in a small pot with soil against a black background.

Crassula ovata, commonly known as the jade plant, is a succulent species within the Crassulaceae family, native to the subtropical regions of South Africa and Mozambique. This evergreen perennial shrub exhibits a compact, branching habit, typically reaching heights of 1–3 meters in optimal conditions. Morphologically, it is characterized by its thick, ovate, glabrous leaves with a glossy surface, which serve as reservoirs for water storage, an adaptation to arid environments. The stems are succulent and woody with age, often displaying a brown, bark-like texture. C. ovata employs Crassulacean Acid Metabolism (CAM) photosynthesis, a xerophytic adaptation that allows for gas exchange primarily during nighttime to reduce transpirational water loss.

(more…)

Read More...
Read More...

2024 Holiday Hours and Last Minute Discounts


A Succulent Wreath crafted with colorful succulents in green, purple, pink, and yellow hues, beautifully arranged in a circle and displayed against a wooden background.

2024 Last minute discounts – Starts Right Now!

In-store only

25% off all orchids, houseplants, ornaments, and succulent wreaths

Marin: thru 12/22/24 (Holiday Hours: Closed 12/23 – 1/1)
Berkeley: thru 12/24/24 (Holiday Hours: Closed 12/25 – 1/1)

Holiday Deliveries:
No deliveries from 12/22/24 thru 1/1/25, deliveries resume on 1/2/25 (more…)

Read More...
Read More...

First Day of Fall


Sunlit outdoor plant nursery with potted plants on display tables, red leaves and berries in the foreground, and tall palm trees silhouetted against a bright blue sky—perfectly capturing the vibrant colors of the Autumn Start.

It’s the first day of Fall here at the Cactus Jungle and the California native grapes are tart and the sun is perfectly aligned behind the palm tree across the street so don’t forget about us for all your Fall plant needs. Like soils! And California native plants! And Agaves of course too.

Read More...
Read More...

Agave, San Francisco


Two-story house with pale green and white siding, bay windows, and a variety of succulents—like Agave—thriving in a raised flowerbed along the front, all set under a partly cloudy San Francisco sky.

A lovely garden with many succulents including the large Agave attenuata, as found on Potrero Hill in San Francisco, also known as the Foxtail Agave for it’s large arching bloom stalk.

(more…)

Read More...
Read More...

New Indoor Pottery


A ceramic mug with a matte finish, inspired by new pottery trends, features brown silhouettes of pine trees around the sides. The bottom has a rough, unglazed texture, while the top is smooth and light gray.

Indoor Pottery is popular with the kids these days and we are featuring new Moon Pots, Tree Pots, and Sun-Face Pots and Decorative Triangle Pots too. These are just some of the pots we have. We have more! (more…)

Read More...
Read More...

Dreaming Unicorno


A colorful Dreaming Unicorno box features a cute cartoon unicorn sleeping in front of a waterfall with stars, gems, and a rainbow background. The brand name tokidoki appears at the bottom.

“Dreaming Unicorno is a charming blind box toy from the beloved Tokidoki series, known for its magical and collectible appeal. Each Unicorno figure is intricately designed with vibrant colors and unique details, capturing a blend of whimsy and fantasy in miniature form. Dreaming Unicorno, like its counterparts, is encased in a surprise box, adding an element of excitement as collectors unbox to reveal which delightful, dreamy version they’ve received. With shimmering finishes, expressive faces, and a touch of playful mystery, Dreaming Unicorno sparks joy and imagination, making it a must-have for fans of cute and quirky collectibles.” ¹ (more…)

Read More...
Read More...

The Column Cacti of Peru: Giants of the Desert


Tall columnar Echinopsis pachanoi (San Pedro cactus) with large white flowers blooming, surrounded by various potted cacti and succulents in an outdoor plant nursery on a sunny day.

Column cacti, towering sentinels of the desert, are among the most iconic and fascinating plants in Peru. These plants belonging to the family Cactaceae, are characterized by their tall, cylindrical stems, which can grow to impressive heights. Peru, with its diverse range of ecosystems, from coastal deserts to Andean highlands, provides a unique habitat for these remarkable plants.

(more…)

Read More...
Read More...

Tiny Plant, Big Blooms: Your Peanut Cactus Success Story Starts Here


echinopsischamaecereusbloom

The peanut cactus (scientifically known as Echinopsis chamaecereus) is a real treat for anyone who loves plants but doesn’t have the time to pamper them.

But the real showstopper is when they burst into a vibrant display of orange, red, pink, or sometimes yellow flowers. Like other desert plants, they are used to dry conditions and lots of sunshine. (more…)

Read More...
Read More...

Oxalis Palmifrons, The Cutest Plant You’ll Ever Meet


oxalis_palmifrons

Have you ever seen a plant that resembles a miniature palm tree, a delicate snowflake, and a lucky clover all at once? Look no further than the Oxalis palmifrons

It’s a captivating succulent that will add a touch of the extraordinary to your space.

But don’t let its delicate features fool you. The Oxalis palmifrons is surprisingly easy to care for, making it perfect for beginners or those struggling to keep their thumbs green. Let’s find out what you need to know to keep your Oxalis palmifrons happy and thriving. (more…)

Read More...
Read More...

Poppies! A Conversation


Poppy Flower

A: Good afternoon! Today, we’ll be delving into the fascinating world of poppy flowers, known scientifically as the genus Papaver. Poppies are not only admired for their aesthetic appeal but also hold significant historical, medicinal, and cultural value.

B: Poppies typically have brightly colored petals and a distinctive, often dark center. The petals can be red, orange, yellow, white, or pink, and they are quite delicate. (more…)

Read More...
Read More...
    
    
  Cactus and Succulents
  Bamboo
  Perennials
  Carnivorous Plants
  Airplants

April 2026
M T W T F S S
 12345
6789101112
13141516171819
20212223242526
27282930