Does a Cactus Need Light?
- Cacti evolved in high light areas and are therefore adapted to receiving large amounts of light on a daily basis. When grown in the home, the best position for a cactus is in direct sunlight; preferably in a south-facing window as the plant will then get some light all day long. If it is not possible to provide light for your cactus all day, consider using an artificial light to help boost light levels.
- Several species of cactus have higher than average sunlight requirements. These species usually feature a tougher than average skin, lots of spines, and may also have blue or white stems. High-sunlight cacti include the Obregonia family, Opuntia ficus (also known as the prickly pear) and many of the Mammilaria family.
- Average-light cacti flourish on sunny windowsills without needing any extra light provisions; making them excellent house plants for anyone who is usually not very good at keeping plants healthy. Average light cacti include the Christmas cactus, the Aporocactus group of cacti and the Chamaecereus family.
- Although most cacti have developed in arid climates, this is not true for all species. Some species, such as those from the rainforests and the Sanseveria have developed in areas where low-light conditions are essential to their survival. Too much light can, in fact, kill a low-light cactus so it is essential these plants are kept indoors.
