Brain Cactus 4"

The Brain Cactus gets its name from its unique, twisted, brain-like shape. It’s a quirky and fun plant that’s relatively easy to care for if you follow a few basic rules. 

🌞 Light:

Bright, indirect light to full sun. It thrives in lots of sunlight, so place it near a south- or west-facing window indoors. Outdoors, partial sun to full sun is ideal, but avoid harsh midday sun if temperatures get too extreme.

💧 Water:

Water sparingly! The Brain Cactus is drought-tolerant and needs watering only when the soil is completely dry.
✔️ Spring & Summer: Water every 2-3 weeks (depending on heat and humidity).
✔️ Fall & Winter: Cut back to once a month or less since it's dormant.

Overwatering is the #1 killer of this plant! Always ensure your pot has drainage holes.

🌱 Soil:

Fast-draining cactus mix is best. You can use:
✔️ Cactus/succulent potting mix
✔️ Extra perlite or sand for better drainage

Avoid heavy or moisture-retaining soils, as they can lead to root rot.

🌡️ Temperature & Humidity:

Prefers warm temperatures: 60-80°F (16-27°C).
Not frost-tolerant! Keep it above 50°F (10°C), and bring it indoors if temperatures drop too low.
Low humidity is best—this cactus prefers dry air, so no need to mist!

🌿 Fertilizer:

Feed lightly during the growing season (spring & summer) with a diluted cactus fertilizer (like 10-10-10 or 5-10-10) once a month. Skip fertilizing in fall and winter.

📏 Growth & Potting:

The Brain Cactus is a slow grower, reaching about 6-12 inches wide over time. It stays relatively compact, making it perfect for small pots or rock gardens.

🐛 Pests & Problems:

Common pests: Watch out for mealybugs, spider mites, and scale insects. Treat with neem oil or a cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol.
❌ Wrinkled or shriveled? Underwatered—give it a deep soak.
❌ Soft, mushy spots? Overwatered—check for root rot and remove affected areas.

Fun Fact! 

The Brain Cactus is actually a mutated form of Mammillaria elongata, where its normal cylindrical growth twists and crests, creating the "brainy" appearance. This mutation happens naturally but is often cultivated for its unique look!