About Us
Welcome to Western Cactus, a charming cactus & succulent nursery nestled in the heart of San Diego County. As a third-generation cactus & succulent nursery, we carry forward the legacy established by our founders, Hans and Gretel Britsch, who laid a foundation of excellence in 1966. Today, under the nurturing guidance of Thomas Britsch (2nd generation) and his son Nico Britsch (3rd generation), we proudly continue their tradition of delivering high-quality cactus & succulent plants.
At Western Cactus, we believe that "Colors Are the Smiles of Nature”. We are dedicated to growing succulents that develop the most unique shapes and vibrant colors. We thank you for taking the time to learn about us, we hope that you too join us in the vibrant world of cactus & succulents.
50+ Years of Experience
We have learned the hard lessons. We know how to grow succulents with the most vibrant colors, the hardiest leaves, and the healthiest roots.
Experienced Employees
When it comes to greenhouse growing experience matters. For over 50 years we have trained our employees on how to produce only the highest quality cacti & succulents.
Large Cutting & Seed Stock
With 50+ year old mother plants, we have the ability to offer a wide range of cactus. In addition, we have a significant cutting stock that we can draw orders from.
Hans & Gretel Our Roots
As a small child, Hans Britsch was the first to find spring wildflowers on the slopes and in the meadows of the Swiss Alps. He attended an agricultural school in Valais, followed by an apprenticeship where he learned to graft plants.
Hans met the love of his life, Margarethe "Gretl" Maria Berner, on a blind date in Switzerland. On September 29, 1962, Hans and Gretl were married. Two years later, Hans and Gretl immigrated to California in search of a place with year-round spring weather.
Hans arrived first, crossing the Atlantic Ocean by ship with his blue VW Bug in tow. In 1966, by chance, they met a Swiss couple who owned a nursery. Hans and Gretl bought their nursery and renamed it Western Cactus Growers.