Totem Pole Cactus Lophocereus shottii Obesa

✔ Unique Sculptural Look – Smooth, spineless, and covered in natural ridges and bumps for an eye-catching display.
✔ Drought-Tolerant & Low Maintenance – Requires minimal care and thrives in arid conditions.
✔ Fast-Growing & Impressive Size – Can grow several feet tall, making it a statement piece in any collection.
✔ Perfect for Landscaping & Containers – Great for rock gardens, xeriscaping, and large decorative pots.

Hardiness Zone

The Totem Pole Cactus does best in Zones 9–11, where winters are mild. It can handle short cold snaps around 25°F, but hard freezes can damage it. If you live in a colder area, grow it in a pot so you can bring it indoors or protect it from frost.

After Arrival Care

Unbox Gently – Carefully take the cactus out of its packaging. If it’s a cutting, don’t worry if the base looks dry. That’s normal.

Rest & Acclimate – If it’s a cutting, let the cut end stay dry for a few week before planting or until calloused. If it’s already rooted, place it in a pot with cactus soil and wait about a week before the first light watering.

Sunlight Introduction – If it was shipped in a box, give it a few days in bright, indirect light before moving it to full sun. This helps prevent sunburn.

Watering

Totem Pole Cacti love the “soak and dry” method. This means water deeply, and then do not water again until the soil is completely dry—all the way to the bottom of the pot. Overwatering is a common mistake and can cause rot, so when in doubt, it’s safer to wait. If you’re unsure, stick your finger or a moisture meter into the soil. If it still feels damp, hold off on watering until it’s fully dry.

Sunlight

Bright light keeps this cactus strong and upright. Outdoors, it thrives in full sun. Indoors, put it by a sunny window with at least 4–6 hours of direct light. Slowly introduce stronger sunlight if your cactus has been in shade or if it came from a greenhouse.

Soil & Pots

Use a well-draining cactus mix—something gritty with sand or perlite. A drainage hole in the pot is very important. Terracotta pots help water evaporate faster, reducing the risk of soggy roots. Avoid oversized pots; choose one just a little bigger than the root ball.

Hard-Grown vs. Greenhouse-Grown

Hard-Grown: Raised outdoors with intense sun and sparse watering. The skin is firmer, and the plant is already used to strong light. It may have small scars from nature, which don’t affect health.

Greenhouse-Grown: Grown in a more sheltered environment. These plants may look flawless but can burn easily in full sun. They need a slower “hardening off” period.

Cuttings vs. Rooted Plants

Cuttings (No Roots): Let the cut end dry for several days before planting in dry cactus mix. Don’t water right away. After a week or two, give a light watering. The cutting may shrink a bit while growing roots—this is normal!

Rooted Plants: Already have established roots. You can pot them up and wait about a week before a gentle watering. Give them bright but not scorching sun at first, then move them to stronger light once they adjust.

Common Problems

Overwatering – Causes soft, rotting stems. If it rots, cut off the healthy top and re-root it as a new cutting.

Underwatering – The cactus may look wrinkled. Water thoroughly if the soil is bone-dry.

Sunburn – Sudden strong sun can leave pale or brown patches. Move the cactus gradually into direct sun.

Pests – Mealybugs show up like white fuzz. Dab them with a cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol.

Growth & Repotting

Totem Pole Cacti grow slowly, adding just a few inches each year. They can reach several feet tall over time. Repot every 2–3 years or when the cactus seems root-bound. Pick a pot only slightly larger. After repotting, wait about a week before watering to let any root damage heal.

FAQ

How often do I water?

Only when the soil is completely dry. In warmer months, every 1–2 weeks; in winter, around once a month.

Can it stay inside year-round?

Yes, if it gets plenty of direct sunlight. A bright window works best.

Is it safe around pets and kids?

It has no sharp spines and isn’t known to be toxic, so it’s usually safe.

Will it flower?

Sometimes older plants bloom with pale pink, night-opening flowers, but it’s rare indoors.

Any fertilizer needed?

You can use a cactus fertilizer at half strength in spring or summer, but don’t overdo it.

By giving your Totem Pole Cactus good light, cautious watering, and a well-draining pot, you’ll enjoy its unique look for many years—even if you’re new to cactus care!