Contents
Description
Ferocactus Echidne is a species of cactus that is native to Mexico. It is also known as the “Barrel Cactus” due to its round and cylindrical shape. This cactus can grow up to 3 feet tall and 2 feet wide, and its stem can have up to 30 ribs. The spines of Ferocactus Echidne are thick and sharp, and they can be up to 4 inches long. During the summer, this cactus produces yellow or orange flowers that sit atop its stem.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain: | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom: | Plantae |
| Phylum: | Tracheophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Caryophyllales |
| Family: | Cactaceae |
| Genus: | Ferocactus |
| Species: | Ferocactus Echidne |
Appearance
Ferocactus Echidne is a strikingly beautiful plant with a unique appearance. Its stem is columnar and ribbed, and it can grow up to 3 feet tall and 2 feet wide. The stem is covered in thick spines that can be up to 4 inches long. The spines are typically yellow or brown in color. During the summer, Ferocactus Echidne produces large, showy flowers that are yellow or orange in color. The flowers sit atop the stem and are often followed by fruit.
Care Guide
Ferocactus Echidne is a hardy plant that is easy to care for. Here are some tips for keeping this plant healthy:
- Water: Water Ferocactus Echidne sparingly, only when the soil is completely dry. Overwatering can cause root rot.
- Fertilization: Fertilize Ferocactus Echidne once a month during the growing season with a cactus fertilizer.
- Soil: Plant Ferocactus Echidne in well-draining soil, such as cactus soil or a mixture of sand, perlite, and peat moss.
- Sunlight: Ferocactus Echidne prefers full sun and can tolerate high temperatures.
- Hardiness Zones: Ferocactus Echidne can tolerate temperatures as low as 20 degrees Fahrenheit and is hardy in USDA zones 9a-11b.
Common Pests & Diseases
Ferocactus Echidne is generally a healthy plant that is not susceptible to many pests and diseases. However, here are some issues to watch out for:
- Mealybugs: These small, white insects can infest Ferocactus Echidne and cause damage. Use a cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol to remove them.
- Root Rot: Overwatering can cause the roots of Ferocactus Echidne to rot. Make sure the soil is completely dry before watering.
- Spider Mites: These small insects can infest Ferocactus Echidne and cause damage. Use a miticide to get rid of them.
Habitat
Ferocactus Echidne is native to Mexico and can be found growing in rocky, dry areas. It is a hardy plant that can tolerate drought and high temperatures. It prefers full sun and well-draining soil.
Question and Answer
Q: How often should I water Ferocactus Echidne?
A: Water Ferocactus Echidne sparingly, only when the soil is completely dry. Overwatering can cause root rot.
Q: What kind of soil does Ferocactus Echidne prefer?
A: Ferocactus Echidne prefers well-draining soil, such as cactus soil or a mixture of sand, perlite, and peat moss.
Q: What are the common pests and diseases that affect Ferocactus Echidne?
A: Mealybugs, root rot, and spider mites are the most common pests and diseases that affect Ferocactus Echidne.
Q: What is the hardiness zone for Ferocactus Echidne?
A: Ferocactus Echidne is hardy in USDA zones 9a-11b.
Related Plants
- Ferocactus Glaucescens
- Ferocactus Latispinus
- Ferocactus Pilosus
- Ferocactus Stainesii
References
- “Ferocactus Echidne.” World of Succulents. Accessed 13 May 2021. https://worldofsucculents.com/ferocactus-echidne-barrel-cactus/
- “Ferocactus Echidne.” Cactus Jungle. Accessed 13 May 2021. https://cactusjungle.com/product/ferocactus-echidne-barrel-cactus/
- “Ferocactus Echidne.” The Spruce. Accessed 13 May 2021. https://www.thespruce.com/ferocactus-echidne-1902863
