Everything you need to know at a glance in one handy and superbly illustrated practical guide. It includes full photographic directory of over 50 varieties of cacti, including Astrophytum, Cereus, Coryphantha, Echinocactus, Opuntia, Pachycereus, Thelocactus, and many more. It features a range of diverse and specialized types that thrive in different climates around the world, including both desert cacti and rainforest cacti. For each variety, full botanical information is provided on history, growth, hue, height, spread and suitability. It includes step-by-step photographic guidance on planting in containers and raised beds, repotting, propagating from cuttings and seed, grafting, maintenance, and how to deal with common pests and diseases. The cactus is perhaps best known as the silent, prickly observer of the wild west action movie, but there are in fact nearly 2,500 different species ranging from the tall column plant to tiny button plants. Capable of surviving in extreme environments, the cactus is surprisingly easy to grow in most gardens. This book guides you through all the techniques involved in propagating and caring for these wonderful plants, and a fully illustrated directory describes over 50 recommended varietes. There is expert advice on selecting the best types, planting them in beds and containers, and dealing with pests and diseases. The book will help you to create amazing displays in indoor arrangements, in the greenhouse and outdoors.