Botanical Name: Stenocactus multicostatus
Common Names: Brain Cactus, Ladyfinger Cactus, Mazatlan Cactus
Stenocactus multicostatus is a small, slow-growing globular cactus native to northern Mexico. It features tightly ribbed, spherical stems that can reach 3–6 inches tall and 3–5 inches wide, with fine radial spines giving a delicate, textured appearance. In summer, it produces small, daisy-like flowers in white to pale pink, adding ornamental appeal. Its compact size makes it ideal for rock gardens, containers, and succulent collections.
Care and Cultivation:
Prefers full sun to bright light
Water sparingly; allow soil to dry completely between waterings
Use a fast-draining cactus or succulent soil mix
Ideal for containers, rock gardens, and collector displays
Frost Tolerance and Cold Hardiness:
Best suited for USDA Zones 9–11
Can tolerate brief cold down to about 25°F (-4°C) when dry
Protect from prolonged freezing and excess winter moisture
Ideal growing temperatures: 65–90°F (18–32°C)
Winter Dormancy and Health:
Growth slows during cooler months
Reduce watering significantly in winter
Maintain bright light to promote healthy growth and flowering
Notes:
Compact, globular form with fine ribbed texture
Produces delicate white to pale pink flowers in summer
Slow-growing and low-maintenance
Excellent for rock gardens, containers, and succulent collections
Botanical Name: Stenocactus multicostatus
Common Names: Brain Cactus, Ladyfinger Cactus, Mazatlan Cactus
Stenocactus multicostatus is a small, slow-growing globular cactus native to northern Mexico. It features tightly ribbed, spherical stems that can reach 3–6 inches tall and 3–5 inches wide, with fine radial spines giving a delicate, textured appearance. In summer, it produces small, daisy-like flowers in white to pale pink, adding ornamental appeal. Its compact size makes it ideal for rock gardens, containers, and succulent collections.
Care and Cultivation:
Prefers full sun to bright light
Water sparingly; allow soil to dry completely between waterings
Use a fast-draining cactus or succulent soil mix
Ideal for containers, rock gardens, and collector displays
Frost Tolerance and Cold Hardiness:
Best suited for USDA Zones 9–11
Can tolerate brief cold down to about 25°F (-4°C) when dry
Protect from prolonged freezing and excess winter moisture
Ideal growing temperatures: 65–90°F (18–32°C)
Winter Dormancy and Health:
Growth slows during cooler months
Reduce watering significantly in winter
Maintain bright light to promote healthy growth and flowering
Notes:
Compact, globular form with fine ribbed texture
Produces delicate white to pale pink flowers in summer
Slow-growing and low-maintenance
Excellent for rock gardens, containers, and succulent collections
