BellinaA Visit to the Toronto Cactus and Succulent Society Annual Show and Sale
Every first Sunday of June, I eagerly anticipate the Toronto Cactus and Succulent Society’s annual show and sale. It’s a tradition I’ve kept up for the past 10 years. It’s a spectacular event filled with rare finds, stunning specimen displays, and an inspiring community of passionate plant lovers. The best place to stay updated on their shows is through their official website or by becoming a member. They also host smaller summer and fall events. But that June show? It’s a must-attend.
One of my all-time favorite finds came from a show years ago, a large Alluaudia ascendens, a striking succulent that’s both architectural and low-maintenance. I got it for under $40, which was a steal for such a mature specimen. This plant has become one of the cornerstones of my collection. It drops its small, olive-toned leaves in winter and goes completely dormant, giving me one less plant to fuss over. Come mid-May, after the first deep watering, it springs to life almost overnight.
I keep it outside on my southwest-facing balcony in summer, where it basks in full sun from sunrise to sunset. During its active growing season, I water it daily, always in the evening when it’s cooler. Each watering includes a bit of feed, a practice I follow with all my succulents and cacti. In winter, I bring it indoors, placing it in a bright southwest window and water it sparingly, just a few teaspoons occasionally to keep the root zone slightly moist. I watch the stems closely. If they start to shrivel, I adjust the watering just enough to prevent desiccation, always careful to avoid root rot.
At the show, beyond the amazing sales tables, you’ll find large, mature plants under display lights. It’s an inspiring preview of what your tiny seedlings can grow into. The members of the society are some of the kindest, most knowledgeable growers I’ve met. They’re always happy to chat, share tips, and help troubleshoot plant issues. There’s always some golden nugget of growing wisdom.
Alluaudia ascendens Care Summary
Light: Full sun (outdoors in summer, bright southwest window in winter)
Water: Daily in summer, sparingly in winter (just enough to prevent shriveling)
Feeding: With every watering during active growth
Dormancy: Drops leaves in winter, resumes growth after first spring soak
Soil: Well-draining cactus or succulent mix
Temperature: Protect from frost, move indoors before temps drop below 10°C
This show isn’t just an event. It’s a celebration of plant life and community, and I can’t wait to return next year.
