Love the look of plants but not entirely convinced you can keep one alive? You're not alone.
Maybe you've had a few houseplants that didn't quite make it, you travel regularly and don't want to leave a thirsty plant behind, or you simply don't have the time to fuss over something that needs constant attention. Whatever the reason, having greenery at home doesn't have to mean taking on another responsibility.
Sometimes, a cactus is a much better place to start.
A little greenery, a lot less fuss
Cacti have a reputation for being tough, and for good reason. They're adapted to store water and cope with dry conditions, which means they generally prefer to dry out between waterings rather than have someone checking on them every other day.
In fact, one of the easiest ways to keep a cactus happy is to resist the temptation to water it too often. Give it plenty of suitable light, a free-draining potting mix and a pot with drainage holes, and you're already off to a good start.
That makes cacti worth considering if you're away on holiday, spend time travelling for work or simply want a plant that fits around your life rather than the other way around.
Of course, not every cactus has exactly the same needs. Light requirements vary, and a cactus sitting in a dim corner won't necessarily thrive just because it doesn't need frequent watering. But get the basics right and they're a wonderfully forgiving option.
Small enough for a windowsill. Big enough to stop you in your tracks.
One of the things we love about cacti is just how much variety there is. Some are tiny enough to sit on a desk or windowsill, while others have the kind of sculptural shape that makes them a feature in their own right.
At City Jungle, we've recently taken a special trip to one of Auckland's iconic nursery suppliers to bring in some exciting additions to our cactus collection. And one of them is hard to miss.
Our largest cactus currently in store stands at approximately 1.8 metres tall. It's a serious statement plant, with the sort of presence that makes you stop and take a second look. It's a reminder that cacti aren't just little plants for a sunny windowsill; some can become a real feature in a home or collection.
Alongside our larger specimens, we have plenty to explore, from little 6 cm cuties to Euphorbias, Mammillarias, Pilosocereus and other unusual shapes and varieties. There's also a selection of succulents if you like the look but want to explore something a little different.
Not sure which one to choose?
Think about where you want to put it. A bright windowsill might suit a compact cactus, while a sunny, spacious spot could be ideal for something more substantial. If you're a frequent traveller, consider the light and conditions in your home before choosing, rather than assuming any cactus will be happy wherever you leave it.
And if you're new to the whole cactus thing, don't worry about knowing the names or understanding every variety. That's what we're here for. Tell us where you want to put your plant and how much attention you'd like to give it, and we can help you find a suitable option.
You might arrive thinking you can't keep a plant alive and leave with a new favourite.
Pop into City Jungle and have a look at the collection for yourself. Whether you're after a tiny desk companion or want to see our towering 1.8-metre cactus in person, there's plenty to discover.
