Polaskia chichipe Cristata (Crested Cactus)
- Low stock - 3 items left
ADD A BEAUTIFUL FITTED POT (OPTIONAL)
The Polaskia chichipe Cristata, also known as the Crested Polaskia, is a rare and highly sought-after cactus prized for its sculptural, fan-like shape. Supplied in a 12cm pot and standing around 18cm tall, this extraordinary plant features intricate, folded growth that makes every specimen completely unique. Its dramatic form and slow-growing nature make it a true collector’s piece — a living sculpture for your home.
Native habitat and growth pattern
The Polaskia chichipe is native to the semi-arid regions of central Mexico, where it grows among rocks and desert scrub. The cristata (or crested) form occurs when the plant’s central growing point mutates, causing new tissue to fan out into undulating, coral-like patterns rather than growing upright. This rare natural occurrence gives the plant its distinctive crested structure, making it one of the most unusual and beautiful cacti available.
Styling at home
The Crested Polaskia is a striking, sculptural plant that instantly draws attention. Its intricate waves and folds look stunning in minimalist interiors, modern spaces, or as a focal point among other succulents. The compact size makes it perfect for desks, shelves, or sunny windowsills. For the full effect, display it in a simple ceramic pot to highlight its extraordinary shape.
Care guide
Light: Prefers bright, direct light. A sunny windowsill or conservatory is ideal.
Water: Water sparingly, allowing the soil to dry out completely between waterings. Reduce watering further during winter.
Humidity: Thrives in dry indoor air; no misting required.
Feeding: Feed once a month in spring and summer with a gentle cactus fertiliser or our Organic Tropical Plant Food.
Temperature: Keep warm (above 12°C). Protect from frost and cold draughts.
Why choose this plant
The Polaskia chichipe Cristata is a true showpiece — rare, elegant, and wonderfully low-maintenance. Each plant grows in its own individual form, with unique folds and curves that create beautiful natural patterns. Ideal for collectors and design enthusiasts alike, it’s a perfect example of nature’s artistry in plant form.
Interesting facts
-
The word cristata means “crested,” referring to the fan-like growth mutation.
-
In the wild, Polaskia chichipe can reach several metres tall, but the crested form stays compact and sculptural.
-
Named after the botanist Federico Polasky, this species is one of Mexico’s most distinctive columnar cacti.
FAQs
Q: What does “cristata” mean?
A: Cristata means “crested” — it describes the plant’s rare fan-shaped growth, caused by a natural mutation.
Q: How tall is the plant?
A: Supplied at approximately 18cm tall, including the 12cm pot.
Q: How often should I water it?
A: Water only when the soil is completely dry. During winter, water sparingly, roughly once every 4–6 weeks.
Q: Can I keep it outside in summer?
A: Yes, it can enjoy time outdoors in warm weather, but keep it sheltered and bring it back indoors before temperatures drop.
Q: Is it pet safe?
A: It’s not toxic but has sharp spines, so keep out of reach of pets and children.
Explore more
Discover more Rare Houseplants or read the Happy Houseplants blog for styling tips and care guides.
Happy Houseplants delivers live houseplants across the UK with fast, carbon-neutral tracked service.
At Happy Houseplants, we ship all live plants via DPD’s 24-hour tracked carbon-neutral service. Delivery usually takes 7–10 working days, but in most cases your plants will arrive much sooner. You can read more about delivery here.
We post to most of the UK, but we’re unable to deliver to the Scottish Highlands and Islands, Northern Ireland, the Isle of Man, the Isle of Wight, the Scilly Isles and the Channel Islands because of higher shipping costs.
When we list a plant’s height, it always includes the grow pot, stem, foliage and living root system — not just what you see above the soil. Because every plant is unique, yours may arrive a little smaller or larger than the size listed.
Happy Houseplants is the UK’s leading online plant shop for rare and unusual houseplants. At Happy Houseplants, we’re more than just a shop. We’re a family-run business, proud RHS Chelsea Flower Show Gold Medal winners, and home to the UK’s number one houseplant blog. Plant lovers across the country trust us for beautiful, healthy plants and expert care.
We specialise in everything from easy-care houseplants for beginners to rare and unusual plants for collectors. Every order is hand-packed by our small team in sustainable, plastic-free packaging and delivered through DPD’s carbon-neutral tracked service.
We’re rated Excellent on Trustpilot and consistently praised for the quality of our plants, the care we take with packaging, and our friendly, knowledgeable service. When you choose Happy Houseplants, you’re choosing sustainability, knowledge and a genuine passion for plants.
Looking for more vibrant and easy-care houseplants? Check out our Easy Care Houseplants collection or browse our Pet Friendly Houseplants if you’ve got furry friends at home. And why not read the Happy Houseplants blog for more styling ideas and plant care tips?
Happy Houseplants runs the UK’s number one houseplant blog with expert tips and guidance.
At Happy Houseplants, we believe buying a plant is only the start — helping it thrive is what really matters. That’s why we run the UK’s number one houseplant blog, filled with expert advice on watering, light, feeding, pest care and more.
Every plant we sell comes with straightforward care tips, and if you’d like to dive deeper you’ll find hundreds of helpful guides and styling ideas on our blog. Explore them here: Happy Houseplants Blog.
Whether you’re just starting out or building a collection, you’ll always find support and inspiration from us.
Happy Houseplants makes plant gifting simple with handwritten cards and nationwide delivery.
At Happy Houseplants, we believe plants make the perfect living gift — thoughtful, long-lasting, and always a joy to receive. Unlike flowers that fade quickly, a houseplant grows and thrives, becoming a lasting reminder of your care.
Sending a gift is simple. Just add your message at checkout and we’ll handwrite it on a card for you. We never include prices or invoices, so your plant arrives as a pure surprise.
Our carefully chosen range includes everything from easy-care indoor plants for beginners to rare and unusual plants for collectors — ideal for birthdays, thank-yous, housewarmings or simply to brighten someone’s day. Every gift is hand-packed in sustainable, plastic-free packaging and delivered nationwide with DPD’s carbon-neutral tracked service.
When you send a gift from Happy Houseplants, you’re not just giving a plant — you’re sending a beautiful, meaningful gesture that lasts.
Happy Houseplants makes it easy to find pet-safe and easy-care houseplants in the UK.
At Happy Houseplants, we know every home is different. That’s why we make it easy to find plants that fit your lifestyle — whether you’re looking for pet-safe options or low-maintenance plants that thrive with minimal fuss.
Our Pet-Friendly Houseplants are carefully chosen so you can add greenery to your home without worry around cats or dogs.
Our Easy Care Houseplants are perfect for beginners or busy households, with varieties that don’t demand constant attention but still bring life and beauty to your space.
