In a clay pot by Death Caxtus Dichotomous While it can be opportunistic, its primary metabolic activity is triggered by the cooler, foggy months of winter and early spring. In its native habitat, it rarely sees actual rainfall, absorbing moisture through its epidermis and spines from the morning mist. In cultivation, it enters a semi-dormancy during the high heat of summer to prevent desiccation and should be kept mostly dry during this time. It is highly sensitive to overwatering; a high-mineral substrate (such as 80% pumice and 20% organic matter) is essential to mimic its native granite scree and protect its thick, carrot-like taproot from rot.