Water
Water thoroughly when the top 2-3 cm of soil is dry. Reduce watering significantly during the dormant winter period. Ensure excellent drainage to prevent root rot, as this cactus prefers to dry out between waterings.
Also known as Harrisia Cactus · Moonlight Cactus · Snake Cactus
Moon Cactus (Harrisia martinii) is a columnar cactus native to South America, known for its ribbed stems and nocturnal white flowers.
At-a-glance light, water, soil, and growing conditions from plant data
High
75% intensity
Prefers bright, direct sunlight.
Moderate
50% intensity
Allow soil to dry out between waterings.
Cactus or succulent mix
50% intensity
Moderate
50% intensity
Prefers warm temperatures during growing season, cooler in winter.
Indoor, Outdoor
50% intensity
Low
25% intensity
Feed during growing season with dilute cactus fertilizer.
Key traits and growing stats from plant data
Watering, pruning, propagation, and repotting details from plant data
Water thoroughly when the top 2-3 cm of soil is dry. Reduce watering significantly during the dormant winter period. Ensure excellent drainage to prevent root rot, as this cactus prefers to dry out between waterings.
Prune to maintain shape or remove dead or damaged stems. Use a clean, sharp knife or shears. Allow cuts to callus over before replanting if desired.
Pruning is generally minimal for this species unless specific shaping is needed.
Propagate by stem cuttings. Allow cuttings to dry and form a callus for a few days before planting in well-draining cactus mix. Roots typically form within a few weeks. This is the most common and effective method.
Repot every 2-3 years or when the plant becomes root-bound. Use a gritty, well-draining cactus potting mix. Choose a pot only slightly larger than the previous one. Repot in spring before active growth begins.
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Monthly activity intensity for bloom and fruit across both hemispheres.
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Photos of Moon Cactus (Harrisia martinii)
Common names and botanical synonyms
Botanical classification
| Rank | Name |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Division | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Caryophyllales |
| Family | Cactaceae |
| Genus | Harrisia |
| Species | Harrisia martinii |
Similar in genus Harrisia
Answers based on plant encyclopedia data