Plants That Look Like Cactus: A Guide to Succulent Lookalikes

Table of Contents

Are you a fan of cacti but looking for something a little different? Look no further than plants that look like cactus! These succulents share many of the same characteristics as cacti, such as their drought tolerance and unique appearance, but offer a unique twist. In this guide, we'll explore some of the most popular plants that resemble cacti and what makes them stand out.

What Are Plants That Look Like Cactus?

When we think of cacti, we often imagine prickly green plants with round or cylindrical shapes. However, there are many other types of succulents that have evolved to look like cacti in order to survive in harsh environments. These plants may have spines, thorns, or ridges on their stems, and they typically store water in their leaves or stems to help them withstand long periods of drought.

15 Plants That Resemble Cacti

1. Euphorbia obesa

Euphorbia obesa is a small, globular succulent that looks like a miniature cactus. It has green ridges that spiral around its spherical shape, giving it a unique texture. This plant is native to South Africa and can grow up to 6 inches tall.

Subheading: Care Tips for Euphorbia Obesa

Euphorbia obesa is easy to care for and requires little water. It should be planted in well-draining soil and given bright, indirect sunlight. Avoid overwatering, as this can lead to root rot.

2. Astrophytum asterias

Astrophytum asterias, also known as the sand dollar cactus, is a small, round plant that looks like a flattened cactus. It has a pattern of white dots on its green surface, giving it a distinctive appearance. This plant is native to Mexico and can grow up to 6 inches tall.

Subheading: Care Tips for Astrophytum Asterias

Astrophytum asterias prefers well-draining soil and bright, indirect sunlight. Water sparingly, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings.

3. Haworthia cooperi

Haworthia cooperi is a rosette-shaped succulent that resembles a miniature aloe vera plant. It has thick, fleshy leaves with white stripes and translucent tips. This plant is native to South Africa and can grow up to 3 inches tall.

Subheading: Care Tips for Haworthia Cooperi

Haworthia cooperi should be planted in well-draining soil and given bright, indirect sunlight. Water sparingly, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings.

4. Mammillaria elongata

Mammillaria elongata is a cylindrical cactus with green stems covered in small spines. It grows in clusters and can reach up to 12 inches tall. This plant is native to Central America and Mexico.

Subheading: Care Tips for Mammillaria Elongata

Mammillaria elongata prefers well-draining soil and bright, direct sunlight. Water sparingly, allowing the soil to dry out completely between waterings.

5. Gymnocalycium mihanovichii

Gymnocalycium mihanovichii, also known as the moon cactus, is a small, colorful plant that is often grafted onto other cacti. It has a spherical shape and can come in a variety of colors, including pink, orange, and yellow. This plant is native to South America and can grow up to 3 inches tall.

Subheading: Care Tips for Gymnocalycium Mihanovichii

Gymnocalycium mihanovichii should be planted in well-draining soil and given bright, direct sunlight. Water sparingly, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings.

6. Stapelia grandiflora

Stapelia grandiflora is a low-growing succulent with thick, fleshy stems covered in short, stubby spines. It produces large, star-shaped flowers with maroon and yellow stripes. This plant is native to South Africa and can grow up to 8 inches tall.

Subheading: Care Tips for Stapelia Grandiflora

Stapelia grandiflora prefers well-draining soil and bright, indirect sunlight. Water sparingly, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings.

7. Ferocactus glaucescens

Ferocactus glaucescens is a large, cylindrical cactus with blue-green stems covered in long, thin spines. It can grow up to 6 feet tall and is native to Mexico and the southwestern United States.

Subheading: Care Tips for Ferocactus Glaucescens

Ferocactus glaucescens prefers well-draining soil and full sun exposure. Water sparingly, allowing the soil to dry out completely between waterings.

8. Aloe striata

Aloe striata is a rosette-shaped succulent with wide, flat leaves that have a pinkish hue. It produces tall spikes of pink flowers in the summer. This plant is native to South Africa and can grow up to 2 feet tall.

Subheading: Care Tips for Aloe Striata

Aloe striata prefers well-draining soil and bright, indirect sunlight. Water sparingly, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings.

9. Opuntia microdasys

Opuntia microdasys, also known as the bunny ear cactus, is a small, flat cactus with round pads covered in fuzzy, white spines. It produces bright yellow flowers in the summer. This plant is native to Mexico and can grow up to 2 feet tall.

Subheading: Care Tips for Opuntia Microdasys

Opuntia microdasys prefers well-draining soil and full sun exposure. Water sparingly, allowing the soil to dry out completely between waterings.

10. Rebutia muscula

Rebutia muscula is a small, ball-shaped cactus with red or orange flowers. It has a ribbed texture and can grow up to 6 inches tall. This plant is native to Bolivia and Argentina.

Subheading: Care Tips for Rebutia Muscula

Rebutia muscula prefers well-draining soil and bright, indirect sunlight. Water sparingly, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings.

11. Echeveria agavoides

Echeveria agavoides is a rosette-shaped succulent with triangular leaves that have a red edge. It produces tall spikes of pink flowers in the summer. This plant is native to Mexico and can grow up to 6 inches tall.

Subheading: Care Tips for Echeveria Agavoides

Echeveria agavoides prefers well-draining soil and bright, indirect sunlight. Water sparingly, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings.

12. Ferocactus chrysacanthus

Ferocactus chrysacanthus is a large, cylindrical cactus with green stems covered in long, thin spines. It can grow up to 10 feet tall and is native to Mexico.

Subheading: Care Tips for Ferocactus Chrysacanthus

Ferocactus chrysacanthus prefers well-draining soil and full sun exposure. Water sparingly, allowing the soil to dry out completely between waterings.

13. Mammillaria bocasana

Mammillaria bocasana is a small, round cactus with white, hair-like spines covering its green stem. It produces pink or red flowers in the summer. This plant is native to Mexico and can grow up to 4 inches tall.

Subheading: Care Tips for Mammillaria Bocasana

Mammillaria bocasana prefers well-draining soil and bright, direct sunlight. Water sparingly, allowing the soil to dry out completely between waterings.

14. Sedum rubrotinctum

Sedum rubrotinctum is a trailing succulent with green leaves that turn red in the sun. It has a unique texture and can grow up to 6 inches tall. This plant is native to Mexico.

Subheading: Care Tips for Sedum Rubrotinctum

Sedum rubrotinctum prefers well-draining soil and bright, indirect sunlight. Water sparingly, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings.

15. Cereus peruvianus

Cereus peruvianus is a large, columnar cactus with green stems covered in small spines. It produces large, white flowers in the summer. This plant is native to South America and can grow up to 40 feet tall.

Subheading: Care Tips for Cereus Peruvianus

Cereus peruvianus prefers well-draining soil and full sun exposure. Water sparingly, allowing the soil to dry out completely between waterings.

Plants that look like cactus offer a fun and unique twist on traditional succulents. By mimicking the appearance of cacti, these plants have evolved to survive in harsh conditions and are often drought-tolerant. Whether you're a seasoned plant collector or just ing out, there's sure to be a succulent lookalike that catches your eye.

FAQs

1. How often should I water my plants that look like cactus?

Most plants that look like cactus prefer to be watered sparingly, allowing the soil to dry out completely between waterings. However, it's important to check the care requirements for each individual plant, as some may have specific watering needs.

2. Can plants that look like cactus be grown indoors?

Yes, many plants that look like cactus can be grown indoors as long as they receive adequate sunlight and are planted in well-draining soil. However, it's important to note that some species may grow quite large and require a lot of space.

3. Do plants that look like cactus require fertilizer?

Most plants that look like cactus do not require frequent fertilization. However, you may choose to fertilize your plants occasionally with a balanced, low-nitrogen fertilizer during their growing season.

4. Are plants that look like cactus poisonous to pets?

Some plants that look like cactus may be toxic to pets if ingested. It's important to research the toxicity of each individual plant before bringing it into your home, and to keep these plants out of reach of pets.

5. Can I propagate plants that look like cactus?

Yes, many plants that look like cactus can be propagated through stem or leaf cuttings. However, it's important to follow proper propagation techniques for each species to ensure success.