Are There Cacti In Australia?
It’s a sunny morning in the outback of Australia. As you take in the sights of the rugged landscape, you spot some clusters of spiky plants dotting the scrubs and deserts. Hmm, those look a lot like cacti—you think to yourself. But don’t cactus grow only in the Americas?
Well, contrary to popular belief, there are no native cactus species in Australia. The prickly plants you see are likely introduced species that have naturalized over time. Though they resemble New World cacti, these plants have adapted to Australia’s climate and terrain. While imposters, they still play an essential ecological role down under.
Read on to learn more about Australia’s deceiving doppelganger plants and how they came to reside in the land down under and get ideas for growing these unique plants in your yard. So stick with us to the end!
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How Did Cacti End Up in Australia if They Aren’t Native?
If cactus aren’t native to Australia, you may be wondering how they got here in the first place.
Early European immigrants and explorers introduced cacti to Australia in the 1800s. Back then, Australia was still largely unexplored by Europeans. The arid interior was harsh and unfamiliar. Settlers were eager to make it feel more like home by planting familiar European crops and ornamental plants.
Prickly Pears Take Over
The infamous prickly pear cactus was one of the earliest cacti brought to Australia. Around 1839, Captain Arthur Phillip planted prickly pear as an ornamental garden plant in Sydney. Soon, it was widely spread as a fence hedge to mark paddock boundaries and contain livestock. By 1890, prickly pear had escaped gardens and was seriously invasive across Queensland and New South Wales.
This rapid takeover was due to a few key factors:
- Lack of natural predators
- Compatible climate
- Spread by livestock and birds
At their peak in the 1920s, prickly pear infested over 60 million acres of land in eastern Australia! Talk about a major invasion.
Fighting Back Against Cacti
Thankfully, authorities eventually got the rampant cacti under control in 1926. Here’s how:
- Released moth and beetle predators from South America
- Chemical and mechanical removal
- Drought hindered cactus growth
These efforts succeeded in cutting infested areas down to just 10% of their previous size. Prickly pears are still common but no longer cause major issues.
So, while settlement brought an influx of cacti, Australia eventually adapted and found a balanced approach. The story of prickly pears shows how even aggressive invaders can be managed with persistence and biological control.
What Kinds of Cacti Can You Find Growing in Australia Today?
The most common cactus you’ll probably come across in the wild is the prickly pear, but over time, many other species have also naturalized throughout Australia.
Among the most typical ones are the following:
- Prickly pear (Opuntia species)
- Devil’s rope (Hatiora salicornioides)
- Coral cactus (Cylindropuntia fulgida)
- Silver torch (Cleistocactus strausii)
- Old man cactus (Cephalocereus senilis)
A Cactus for Every Climate
Australia’s wide variety of climates, from tropical north to temperate south, supports different cacti species.
- Tropical north – Stapeliads, dragonfruit, night-blooming cereus
- Arid interior – Barrel cacti, prickly pear, mistletoe cactus
- Coastal – Coral cactus, silver torch, Christmas cactus
- Temperate south – Monkey puzzle tree, orchid cactus
So, no matter where you are in Australia, you’re likely to find some naturalized cactus growing nearby. Keep an eye out next time you’re exploring the bush or strolling your neighborhood.
Hardy Survivors
It’s impressive how well these succulents from the Americas have adapted to Australia’s harsh conditions. Their resilience just goes to show why cacti make great low-maintenance garden plants.
Naturalized cacti have found a permanent home here. Even if they aren’t native, we’ve embraced these hardy survivors as part of Australia’s unique landscapes.
What are the Benefits of Growing Cacti in Australia?
Cacti may seem like an unusual choice for many Australian gardens. After all, they evolved in the deserts of the Americas – not exactly the same as the Land Down Under! However, there are some great benefits that make cacti well-suited to growing in many parts of Australia.
Low Maintenance
Cacti are champions of drought-tolerance. Their thick, waxy skin and specialized stems store water efficiently. This means they require very little watering once established, making cacti ideal for low maintenance gardens.
During long hot spells, when other plants struggle, cacti barely bat an eye. You can basically ignore them between occasional drinks. Set it and forget it!
Unique Visual Interest
With their funky shapes and spines, cacti provide unique visual interest compared to common Australian natives. They make eye-catching specimen plants and garden features.
Cactus flowers also put on a colorful show when they bloom. The spectacular night blooming cereus is a magnificent sight, with huge white flowers open after sunset.
Climate Compatibility
Many cacti naturally thrive in hot, arid environments – not too different from parts of Australia! Species from South America’s deserts can handle our heat and aridity.
Play to their strengths by situating cacti in full sun and fast-draining soil. Shelter them from frost in cooler regions. Proper conditions will keep them happy.
Wildlife Habitat
Lizards and birds love using cacti as habitat. The spines provide protection from predators, and the flowers offer nectar. Try placing a cactus near native shrubs to create an attractive microhabitat.
So don’t be afraid to incorporate cacti into your garden! With minimal coddling, they’ll add delightful character to Australian landscapes.
What Cactus Species are Popular for Gardens and Landscaping?
Beyond the cacti that have naturalized across Australia, there are many species grown purposely for ornamental gardens and landscaping.
Nurseries offer a wide selection of cacti to add visual punch to any outdoor space. Some top picks include:
Statement Cacti
- Golden barrel (Echinocactus grusonii) – Shimmering lemon spines; rounded form
- Totem pole (Lophocereus schottii) – Columnar cactus grows to 6m tall
- Moon cactus (Gymnocalycium) – Grafted mutant cacti; vivid colors
Cascading & Clumping
- Rat tail cactus (Aporocactus flagelliformis) – Sprawling stems with red flowers
- Hedgehog cactus (Echinopsis spp.) – Clustering growth with fuzzy spines
- Old lady cactus (Mammillaria hahniana) – Low clumps with white hair
Edible Cacti
- Dragon fruit (Hylocereus) – Unique vining cacti with edible fruit
- Prickly pear (Opuntia) – Iconic paddles and sweet red fruit
- Torch cactus (Echinopsis chiloensis) – Produces strawberry-flavored fruit
Cold-hardy Types
- Hardy mammillaria (Mammillaria plumosa) – Furry cactus tolerates light frost
- Snowball cactus (Parodia lenninghausii) – Small, rounded form; flowers in winter
- Old man cactus (Cleistocactus trollii) – Wooly columnar cactus; light frost hardy
With this diversity, you’re sure to find terrific cactus specimens for gardens across Australia!
Are There Any Special Considerations for Growing Cacti in Australia?
Cacti are easy-going plants, but there are a few specific needs to keep in mind for growing success in Australia’s varied environments.
Sunlight
Cacti crave full sun. Aim for at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day. More is better!
In hot northern regions, provide a bit of shade to prevent scorching. In cooler climates, soak up every ray of sunshine you can.
Soil
Good drainage is key! Cacti hate soggy roots. Use a sandy, gravelly mix to ensure water can drain freely.
To conserve moisture, add water-holding materials like sand and perlite. Organic matter is not necessary – avoid peaty, rich soils.
Water
Resist overwatering! Most cacti are drought-adapted and store water in their stems and leaves.
Wait until the soil dries out between deep waterings. Cut back in winter. Rainfall in coastal areas contributes to needed moisture.
Climate Protection
Shelter tropical cacti from frost, which damages tender tissue. Move pots under the shelter or cover with fabric.
Hot, dry winds can desiccate cacti. Use screens to diffuse harsh winds in inland regions. Controlled environments like greenhouses allow more delicate species to thrive.
With proper siting and care, cacti are easy keepers! Mimic their native conditions, and they’ll reward you with minimal fuss.
Where Can You See Large Cactus Gardens in Australia?
Want to see incredible collections of cacti and other succulents from around the world? Luckily, several public gardens and botanic gardens showcase spectacular displays.
Here are some top spots for cactus lovers to visit:
Arid Garden – Adelaide Botanic Garden
This curated garden contains 2,300+ cacti and succulents from arid regions—Marvel at massive barrel cacti and diverse euphorbias from Africa and Madagascar. Don’t miss the shade house overflowing with choice specimens.
Australian Arid Lands Botanic Garden – Port Augusta
Set against the Flinders Ranges, this dedicated arid climate garden has an extensive cactus collection. Mounds of colorful prickly pears contrast with quirky species like the comical old man cactus.
Eromanga Natural History Museum
Located in dusty Eromanga, Queensland, this small museum boasts the world’s largest collection of Australian native succulents. See rare relics from our ancient landscapes alongside exotic cacti from around the globe.
Australian National Botanic Gardens – Canberra
The succulent collection here contains a multitude of cacti in the National Rock Garden and adjoining glasshouses. Prime examples of unusual species are artfully displayed.
Karawatha Forest Discovery Centre – Brisbane
Near the Glasshouse Mountains, this park nurtures the largest cultivation of native Australian raintree in public gardens. Its bizarre swollen trunk hosts an array of epiphytes.
For cactus lovers, visiting one of these featured gardens is a must! You’ll discover new favorites and inspiration for your own arid plantings.
How Can You Get Started Growing Cacti in Your Own Australian Garden?
Ready to add some prickly architectural flair to your garden? Getting started with growing cacti is easy. Follow these tips, and you’ll be on your way to cactus success!
Selecting Cacti
Choose cacti suited to your region’s climate. Tropical, desert, or temperate species?
Consider the mature size – some get huge! Small varieties work well in containers.
Pick visually striking species with colors, shapes, and textures you love.
Look for healthy, blemish-free plants from reputable nurseries. Avoid damage or pests.
Preparing the Planting Area
Cacti need:
Full sun – At least 6 hours/day of direct sun.
Well-draining soil – Sandy, gravelly mix enriched with perlite or pumice.
Space to grow – Give larger columnar or clustering types room to expand.
Good air circulation – Avoid cramped spaces prone to rot and mildew.
Planting Your Cactus
Carefully remove it from the container without damaging the roots. Tease out any circling roots.
Set in a hole so the base of the plant sits at soil level—Backfill with prepared soil blend.
Make a water basin around the base to direct water. Top-dress with decorative gravel to conserve moisture.
Water thoroughly after planting, then let dry out between waterings.
Ongoing Care
Soak soil fully when watering, then allow it to dry out. Water less in winter.
Fertilize a couple of times per year in spring and summer with a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer.
Prune damaged, diseased, or unsightly growth as needed. Some benefit from occasional rejuvenation pruning.
Protect from frost and harsh weather extremes as needed based on climate.
With the right conditions and occasional maintenance, cacti are highly rewarding additions to Australian gardens. Let your imagination run wild, designing arid landscapes full of spiny spectacle!
Final Say
Australia may lack native cactus species, but over time, it has embraced succulents from across the seas. Naturalized prickly pears and cereus adorn our landscapes with iconic silhouettes. Carefully cultivated collections present the diversity of global cacti.
These desert survivors brighten gardens with architectural forms and tenacious flowers. Whether found sprouting wild or carefully curated in a pot, cacti have adapted and thrived in the Land Down Under.
Our vast continent provides the perfect playground for these bold accents. With their resilience and charm, cacti have found a true home in Australia.
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References:
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Prickly_pears_in_Australia
http://www.northwestweeds.com.au/prickly-pear-history/
https://aso.gov.au/
https://www.brisbane.qld.gov.au
https://www.anbg.gov.au/gardens/
https://enhm.com.au/
https://www.aalbg.org/
https://www.daf.qld.gov.au/
https://australiansucculents.com/news/
