Indoor cactus plants are among the easiest houseplants you can grow, making them perfect for both beginners and busy plant lovers.
These drought-tolerant wonders store water in their stems, allowing them to thrive even when you forget to water. With their sculptural forms and surprising flowers, cacti bring both resilience and charm into your home.
They also suit a desert-inspired interior style, adding bold texture and natural character. Place them in a sunny window, give them occasional watering, and enjoy their beauty without constant fuss.
Here are 11 beautiful and easy-to-grow indoor cactus plants that will brighten up your living space.
#1 Rat Tail Cactus
The Rat Tail Cactus is a showstopper with its long, trailing stems that look incredible in hanging baskets. Its growth is fast, often reaching 2–3 feet in length, creating a dramatic display. Place it in bright light and let the soil dry between waterings.
During spring and summer, you may see bursts of pink or purple blooms along the stems. It thrives on neglect, making it ideal if you forget your watering schedule. The cascading effect adds movement and softness to your decor.
#2 Barrel Cactus
Barrel Cactus, also called golden ball or mother-in-law’s cushion, is a classic favorite. Its round shape and golden spines make it a natural conversation piece.
Place it in a clay pot where it can soak up full sun. Water deeply but only when the soil is dry. Over time, it may produce small flowers at the crown. This cactus brings a timeless desert vibe into your home.
#3 Candelabra Tree
The Candelabra Tree grows tall and upright, resembling a miniature desert tree indoors. Its lush green stems can reach impressive heights with good care. Position it in a bright, sunny spot and water sparingly.
In ideal conditions, you’ll notice clusters of white flowers tipped with red. Because of its size, it’s best suited as a floor plant in spacious rooms. Its dramatic presence makes it a living sculpture for your home.
#4 Bunny Ear
The Bunny Ear Cactus gets its name from the paired pads that look like rabbit ears. Native to Mexico, it grows up to 2–3 feet tall. Place it in bright sunlight and let the soil dry completely before watering again.
Instead of long spines, it has clusters of small prickles called glochids, so handle carefully. With time, the plant forms a cluster of “ears” that keep multiplying. It’s both playful and charming as part of your cactus collection.
#5 Bishop’s Cap
Bishop’s Cap has ribbed, star-shaped spheres covered with a frosty white coating. This powdery layer helps protect it from sunlight and gives it a unique look. Grow it in a clay or ceramic pot where drainage is excellent.
Water occasionally, letting the soil dry in between. It sometimes surprises growers with small yellow flowers at the crown. Its geometric form adds elegance to minimalist or rustic interiors alike.
#6 Lifesaver Cactus
The Lifesaver Cactus stands out for its unusual star-shaped flowers. Each bloom has zebra-like stripes with a thick ring in the center, resembling a candy lifesaver. Grow it in bright, indirect light and water when the soil begins to dry.
Its four-sided stems are lined with soft teeth, making them easy to handle. The striking flowers appear in summer and are sure to grab attention. This cactus adds a touch of whimsy to your display.
#7 Peanut Cactus
Peanut Cactus gets its name from the finger-like stems that resemble peanut shells. In spring, it produces bright orange or white flowers that are large compared to the stems. Place it in a sunny window where it gets direct light.
Water moderately during the growing season and reduce watering in winter. Its compact size makes it perfect for small pots. This cactus looks especially cheerful when in full bloom.
#8 Star Cactus
The Star Cactus, also called sand dollar or sea urchin cactus, is small but captivating. Its round body is divided into eight neat sections with tiny white hairs and dots. Plant it in well-draining soil and keep it in a sunny spot.
Water sparingly, as it dislikes soggy conditions. In the right season, it may bloom with a delicate yellow flower. Its neat symmetry and small size make it ideal for desks or shelves.
#9 Snowball Cactus
Snowball Cactus is known for its rounded form and colorful flowers that can be red, yellow, pink, or orange. It’s one of the easiest cacti to care for indoors. Give it plenty of bright, indirect sunlight and let the soil dry before watering again.
Its dense spines give it a fuzzy, snowball-like look. In spring, it bursts into color with clusters of flowers at the top. This cheerful cactus adds warmth to any windowsill.
#10 Pencil Cactus
Pencil Cactus has slender, pencil-like stems that branch upward like a miniature tree. Indoors, it can reach 4–6 feet tall, making it an impressive focal point. Grow it in bright light and water sparingly, as it prefers drier soil.
Be cautious, as its sap is toxic to both pets and people. Wear gloves if you need to prune it. Despite the warning, its sculptural form is breathtaking in modern spaces.
#11 Ladyfinger Cactus
Ladyfinger Cactus is compact, reaching only about 6–7 inches tall. Its slender stems are covered with golden spines, and in spring it produces lovely white flowers. Place it in a sunny window and water only when the soil dries out.
It grows well in clusters, creating a charming little clump. This cactus is perfect for small apartments or tabletops. Its delicate flowers make it as graceful as its name suggests.