- 1 The Golden Barrel Cactus (Echinocactus grusonii):
- 2 Lophophora williamsii, ‘Peyote’:
- 3 Astrophytum asterias, ‘Super Kabuto’:
- 4 Haageocereus tenuis, ‘Peruvian Torch Cactus’:
- 5 Ariocarpus fissuratus, ‘Living Rock Cactus’:
- 6 Echinocereus grusonii, ‘Rainbow Hedgehog Cactus’:
- 7 Astrophytum myriostigma ‘Bishop’s Cap Cactus’:
- 8 Copiapoa cactus:
- 9 Turbinicarpus cacti:
- 10 Ferocactus latispinus, ‘Devil’s Tongue Barrel Cactus’:
- 11 Stenocactus multicostatus, ‘Brain Cactus’:
- 12 Echinopsis lageniformis, ‘Peruvian Torch Cactus’:
- 13 Acanthocalycium cacti:
- 14 Ferocactus glaucescens, ‘Blue Barrel Cactus’:
- 15 Mammillaria magnimamma, ‘Large Nipple Cactus’:
- 16 Gymnocalycium mihanovichii, ‘Moon Cactus’:
- 17 Parodia cacti:
- 18 Echinocactus texensis, ‘Horse Crippler Cactus’:
- 19 Turbinicarpus saueri, ‘Sauer’s Cactus’:
- 20 Coryphantha cactus
- 21 Melocactus cacti:
The best 21 most expensive cacti in the world could be worth a fortune.
In the world of botanical wonders, cacti stand out as resilient symbols of endurance and adaptability. These spiny succulents have long captivated enthusiasts and collectors alike, but few realise the astonishing value some cacti command in the market. From rare specimens coveted by collectors to unique hybrids prized for their beauty, the cactus world boasts a hidden realm of opulence.
Join us on a journey through the realm of nature’s luxury as we explore the 20 most expensive cacti in the world. From the remote deserts of South America to the private collections of avid collectors, these remarkable plants are more than just ornamental curiosities; they represent a convergence of rarity, beauty, and investment potential.
Whether you’re a seasoned collector or simply intrigued by the intersection of nature and wealth, prepare to be amazed by the astonishing value these prickly treasures can command.
The Golden Barrel Cactus (Echinocactus grusonii):
Known for its striking golden hue and spherical shape, the Golden Barrel Cactus tops the list as one of the most expensive cacti in the world. Its rarity in cultivation and slow growth contribute to its high value, with specimens fetching thousands of dollars in auctions and collector circles.
Lophophora williamsii, ‘Peyote’:
Revered for its cultural significance and psychoactive properties, the Peyote cactus commands a hefty price tag in certain markets. Due to legal restrictions and conservation efforts, cultivated specimens of this sacred plant can be exceptionally expensive, making them a prized possession among collectors and enthusiasts.
Astrophytum asterias, ‘Super Kabuto’:
With its distinctive star-shaped markings and unique rib structure, the Super Kabuto cactus is highly sought after by collectors. Its rarity in the wild and slow growth rate contribute to its exclusivity and high market value, making it a coveted addition to any cactus collection.
Haageocereus tenuis, ‘Peruvian Torch Cactus’:
Haageocereus tenuis, also known as the Peruvian Torch Cactus, is a tall, columnar cactus native to Peru. Its slender stems and striking ribbed texture make it a sought-after addition to any cactus collection. Due to its slow growth and limited availability, cultivated specimens of Haageocereus tenuis can fetch significant prices in certain markets, making it a valuable asset for collectors and enthusiasts alike.
Ariocarpus fissuratus, ‘Living Rock Cactus’:
Aptly named for its rock-like appearance, the Living Rock Cactus is prized for its unusual morphology and slow growth. Collectors are willing to pay top dollar for well-established specimens of this rare and sought-after cactus, making it a valuable asset in the world of cactus cultivation.
Echinocereus grusonii, ‘Rainbow Hedgehog Cactus’:
Sporting vibrant hues ranging from pink to purple, the Rainbow Hedgehog Cactus is a stunning and sought-after addition to any cactus collection. Its striking colours and slow growth contribute to its high market value, with enthusiasts willing to pay premium prices for well-established specimens.
Astrophytum myriostigma ‘Bishop’s Cap Cactus’:
Named for its distinctive cap-like shape, the Bishop’s Cap Cactus is prized for its ornamental value and unique appearance. With its slow growth and limited availability, this cactus commands a high price in collector circles, making it a coveted addition to any collection.
Copiapoa cactus:
hailing from the arid regions of Chile, Copiapoa cacti are prized for their striking appearance and resilience. Certain rare species and cultivars of Copiapoa can fetch exorbitant prices in the collector market, with enthusiasts eagerly vying for the opportunity to add these rare specimens to their collections.
Turbinicarpus cacti:
With their compact size and intricate patterns, Turbinicarpus cacti are highly prized by collectors and enthusiasts alike. Certain species and cultivars of Turbinicarpus, such as Turbinicarpus valdezianus and Turbinicarpus pseudopectinatus, can command significant prices in the collector market due to their rarity and ornamental value.
Ferocactus latispinus, ‘Devil’s Tongue Barrel Cactus’:
Featuring striking red spines and a barrel-shaped body, the Devil’s Tongue Barrel Cactus is a highly sought-after addition to any cactus collection. Its ornamental value and slow growth contribute to its high market value, with collectors willing to pay top dollar for well-established specimens.
Stenocactus multicostatus, ‘Brain Cactus’:
Renowned for its distinctive brain-like appearance, the Brain Cactus is a prized addition to any cactus collection. Its unusual morphology and slow growth rate make it a rare find in cultivation, with collectors eagerly seeking out well-established specimens for their collections.
Echinopsis lageniformis, ‘Peruvian Torch Cactus’:
Known for its tall, columnar shape and psychedelic properties, the Peruvian Torch Cactus is highly prized by collectors and enthusiasts. Cultivated specimens of this rare cactus can fetch significant prices in certain markets, making it a valuable addition to any collection of psychoactive plants.
Acanthocalycium cacti:
With their intricate spination and striking flowers, Acanthocalycium cacti are highly valued by collectors for their ornamental beauty. Certain rare species and cultivars of Acanthocalycium, such as Acanthocalycium glaucum and Acanthocalycium thionanthum, can command premium prices in the collector market due to their rarity and aesthetic appeal.
Ferocactus glaucescens, ‘Blue Barrel Cactus’:
Featuring striking blue-grey spines and a barrel-shaped body, the Blue Barrel Cactus is a prized addition to any cactus collection. Its unique coloration and slow growth rate contribute to its high market value, with collectors eagerly seeking out well-established specimens for their collections.
Mammillaria magnimamma, ‘Large Nipple Cactus’:
Named for its prominent tubercles and large flowers, the Large Nipple Cactus is a sought-after addition to any cactus collection. Its ornamental value and slow growth make it a rare find in cultivation, with collectors willing to pay top dollar for well-established specimens.
Gymnocalycium mihanovichii, ‘Moon Cactus’:
Characterised by its bright, colourful appearance and lack of chlorophyll, the Moon Cactus is a popular choice among collectors for its ornamental value. Certain rare cultivars of Gymnocalycium mihanovichii, such as the red, orange, and yellow varieties, can command premium prices in the collector market due to their striking colours and unique appearance.
Parodia cacti:
With their spherical bodies and colourful spination, Parodia cacti are prized by collectors for their ornamental beauty. Certain rare species and cultivars of Parodia, such as Parodia leninghausii and Parodia warasii, can fetch significant prices in the collector market due to their rarity and aesthetic appeal.
Echinocactus texensis, ‘Horse Crippler Cactus’:
Featuring formidable spines and a distinctive ribbed texture, the Horse Crippler Cactus is a prized addition to any cactus collection. Its ornamental value and slow growth rate contribute to its high market value, with collectors eagerly seeking out well-established specimens for their collections.
Turbinicarpus saueri, ‘Sauer’s Cactus’:
Named after its discoverer, Sauer’s Cactus is highly prized by collectors for its compact size and intricate patterns. Cultivated specimens of this rare cactus can fetch significant prices in certain markets, making it a valuable addition to any collection of rare and exotic plants.
Coryphantha cactus
Known for their small size and intricate flowers, Coryphantha cacti are highly valued by collectors for their ornamental beauty. Certain rare species and cultivars of Coryphantha, such as Coryphantha sulcata and Coryphantha elephantidens, can command premium prices in the collector market due to their rarity and aesthetic appeal.
Melocactus cacti:
With their distinctive cephaliums and cylindrical bodies, Melocactus cacti are prized by collectors for their unique appearance. Certain rare species and cultivars of Melocactus, such as Melocactus azureus and Melocactus matanzanus, can fetch significant prices in the collector market due to their rarity and ornamental value.
In the world of cacti cultivation and collecting, rarity and exclusivity often dictate value, with certain specimens fetching prices that rival even the most extravagant of commodities. From the golden hues of the Golden Barrel Cactus to the psychedelic allure of the Peyote,
T he 20 most expensive cacti in the world represent a diverse array of species and cultivars prized by collectors and enthusiasts alike. Whether for their ornamental value, cultural significance, or sheer rarity, these prickly wonders continue to captivate the imagination and command astonishing fortunes in the world of plant collecting.