Low Maintenance, Unique Form
Bright Direct Light
Mature Height 6 - 13 Feet
Water Needs - Seasonally

Unusual cactus shapes are always in demand, and the Spiral Cactus is no exception. This unique specimen begins as a straight, ridged stem and gradually develops a distinctive twist, ultimately forming multiple candelabra-like branches as it matures. Although Cereus forbesii grows slowly, its spiral shape begins to emerge while it is still young. An urban legend suggests that all Spiral Cacti descend from a single enormous plant discovered in Brazil in the 1980s. Regardless of its origins, this easy-to-care-for cactus is sure to become a standout in your collection.

Best Locations For Growing Spiral Cactus

Due to its sharp spines, the Spiral Cactus is best suited to low-traffic areas. Tabletops and desktops provide excellent opportunities to showcase its unique shape. Cacti require low humidity, making them ideal for bedrooms or living rooms with bright natural light. While cacti are generally non-toxic, the stiff spines can cause skin punctures and irritation for both pets and humans.

Spiral Cactus Sunlight Requirements

Bright direct light is essential for strong, upright growth. Indirect and filtered sunlight are also suitable, though regular rotation may be necessary to maintain a straight posture. Position the cactus near south or west-facing windows, away from heating and cooling vents, for optimal exposure.

Spiral Cactus Care

Cacti need a specialized potting mix that drains quickly. You can use a pre-mixed commercial cactus and succulent potting mix or create your own by combining equal parts all-purpose potting mix, sharp sand, grit or pumice, and perlite. Repot it frequently to allow for ample root development.

The spiral shape begins to form when the cactus reaches at least 2-3 inches, while the straight section at the base often remains throughout its life. It will not require pruning to maintain its interesting form. Flowering may occur indoors, particularly during late spring and early summer.

Watering Spiral Cactus

Allow the soil of your cactus to dry out completely between waterings, checking every two weeks for moisture levels. Signs of dehydration, such as a shriveling stem, may seem alarming but will quickly reverse after a good soaking. Keep your cactus in temperatures above 50°F (10°C), as both wet and cold roots can be detrimental to its health.

Feeding Spiral Cactus

Spiral Cactus appreciates light feeding throughout the year. Use an all-purpose cactus and succulent fertilizer to promote strong root development and vibrant color. Apply the fertilizer sparingly once a month in spring and summer, then reduce to every two months in winter.

Spiral Cactus Information

Light Exposure: Bright Direct Light

Mature Height: 6 - 13 Feet

Mature Spread: 4 - 5 Inches

Habit: Upright

Flower Color(s): Pink, Red, White

Foliage Color(s): Blue, Green

Watering: Seasonally

Features: Low Maintenance

Common Name: Spiral Cactus

Other Name(s): Spiral Cactus

Scientific Name: Cereus forbesii 'Spiralis'

SKU:: SUCC_CACTUS_SPIRALIS

Container Sizes

Please Note: The pictures below are to give a general representation of the different container sizes. The actual size/ages of plants are estimates and will vary based on; type of plant, time of year, last pruning & many other factors.

For more detailed information, please click here.

Plant Addicts Guarantee (Included On All Plant Orders)

Plant Addicts always guarantees your plant(s) will arrive happy & healthy. However, plant(s) are being shipped through the mail & sometimes accidents happen. If the plant is dead, has dried out roots or the incorrect item was shipped, just notify Plant Addicts within 3 days upon delivery. We may ask for pictures but will try to make it as easy as possible for you. Please note, plant(s) with damaged branches or wilted leaves will not qualify for this guarantee. Plants are very resilient and will rebound quickly when cared for correctly.

For more information on how to care for your new plants, please click on our guide below.

Guide: How to Care for Your New Plant(s)

Plant Addicts Warranty - 1 Year (Extra Purchase Required)

We encourage all plant lovers to purchase the Plant Addicts Warranty, whether you're a new gardener or an expert. There are many variables outside of anyone's control that can cause a plant to die. Hungry animals, drought, poor soil conditions, over watering, diseases & pests are all good examples of what can cause plants to die. The Plant Addicts Warranty is a 1 year warranty protecting you from all of the unknowns and will replace your plant if something were to happen to it.

The warranty is purchased on a per plant basis and must be purchased at the same time as the plant(s). We will cover 100% of the price of the plant, but the warranty does not cover shipping costs. SImply let us know if your plant has died within 1 year of receiving it and we will get you a new one shipped out as soon as possible (depending on the time of the year and availability). We may ask for photos for documentation purposes, but we try to make the process as easy as possible.

For more information, please click on our page below.

Guarantee and Warranty

Plant Shipping

Below are some factors we consider when determining when to ship the plants depending on the timing of the order.

Winter to Early Spring

We ship only when it's warm enough to plant in your growing zone.
Sometimes plants aren't completely ready to sell and ship in early spring. We will wait until the plants are ready before shipping so you don't get a subpar product.
For Southern plants we will be able to ship much earlier than plants coming from our northern nursery.

Summer

If there is extreme heat we may delay shipping for a week or several weeks.
We review what areas the plants are traveling through as well as your location.

Fall into Winter

We’ll ship plants out all the way up to the end of the fall planting season!

Winter

Get your order in early to reserve your plants for Spring planting!

Once your plant is shipped you’ll receive an automated email with tracking information.

Click here for more detailed shipping information.

Planter Shipping

Standard Colors: 2-3 business days

Special Order Colors: 8 weeks - this is due to the planter being custom made with the color(s) of your choice

Please Note: On special orders there can not be any cancellations

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Spiral Cactus

Plant Addicts - HP

Container Size