Moon cactus (Gymnocalycium mihanovichii)
Care, watering, light and tips for Moon cactus on Floravia.
Quick facts
- Family: Cactaceae
- Difficulty: Easy to care for
- Watering: every 18 days
- Light: Full sun
- Temperature: 10–40 °C
About Moon cactus
Gymnocalycium mihanovichii, also known as Moon cactus or grafted cactus, is a small, globular cactus native to South America. It is characterized by its vibrant colors, ranging from intense red and orange to yellow, often lacking chlorophyll in many cultivated forms. It's an ideal plant for cactus and succulent collections, adding a unique splash of color.
Native range
Paraguay and Argentina
Care tips
It requires bright light, but avoid direct midday sun exposure in summer to prevent scorching, especially for chlorophyll-lacking forms. Watering should be moderate, allowing the substrate to dry out completely between waterings, and almost none in winter. Use a well-draining substrate, specific for cacti. A common mistake is overwatering, which can lead to basal rot, especially in grafted specimens.
How to save a dying Moon cactus
- Warning signs
- Discoloration (yellow/brown), soft spots, rot at graft base.
- First aid
- Remove soft/black parts, apply fungicide if rot. Check graft.
- What kills it
- Overwatering, lack of light, or failed graft. DO NOT overwater.
- Can it be saved?
- Yes, if rot is not too advanced and graft is stable.