Opuntia quitensis – Red Button Cactus

Compact, sculptural, and full of quiet drama, Opuntia quitensis, commonly known as the Red Button Cactus, is a distinctive South American cactus prized for its flattened pads and striking seasonal blooms. Smaller and more refined than many Opuntia species, it’s particularly well suited to indoor growing and curated cactus collections.

When mature and grown in strong light, this cactus can produce large, silky flowers in warm yellow to apricot tones, often with contrasting centres that give rise to the “red button” name. The blooms sit beautifully against the blue-green pads, creating a moment that feels both unexpected and elegant.

Slow-growing and easy-care, this is a brilliant choice for bright windowsills, shelves, or anyone looking to add a flowering cactus to their indoor jungle.

Plant Care 

Light: Cacti need bright light to survive. My rule of thumb is always to let them have a view of the sky. The best bet is a sunny windowsill.

Watering: These plants are drought tolerant. Only water when the soil completely dries out, as overwatering can quickly kill these plants. Cut way back on watering in winter. Be sure to water the soil directly and avoid splashing on the pads, as sitting water can cause fungal issues. 

Temperature: 15-27°C is ideal, but it can go as low as 10°C, try to avoid any drafts below 4°C.

Potting: A well-draining mix is ideal for this plant. Our Savvy Succa would be a great fit.

Hot tips: This is not a fan of humidity, so avoid those steamy bathrooms.

Pet Friendly: Yes, but the spikes can cause irritation so best to place it out of reach of your furry friends or small humans.