The pencil cactus, known for its unique and slender appearance, thrives best in full sun. This means that it requires at least six hours of direct sunlight on most days to grow and thrive. However, it is worth noting that this plant can tolerate some shade and may even benefit from a bit of protection from the scorching afternoon sun.
In my personal experience with pencil cacti, I have found that they truly flourish when given ample sunlight. I have had a few pencil cacti in my garden, and the ones that received the most sunlight grew taller, had more vibrant green foliage, and produced more flowers. On the other hand, the ones that were placed in shadier spots struggled to grow as vigorously and had a more compact appearance.
If you are growing a pencil cactus indoors, it is essential to place it near the brightest window in your home. This will ensure that it receives as much natural light as possible. If you have multiple windows, choose the one that gets the most sunlight throughout the day. While indoor lighting can supplement natural sunlight to some extent, it is always best to provide the plant with direct sunlight whenever possible.
To summarize, the pencil cactus thrives in full sun conditions and requires at least six hours of direct sunlight on most days. While it can tolerate some shade, it appreciates protection from the hot afternoon sun. Whether you are growing it outdoors or indoors, ensuring that it receives ample light will promote healthy growth and vibrant foliage.
