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Description
Ferocactus Robustus, also known as the Mexcian giant barrel cactus, is a species of cactus native to Mexico. It belongs to the Cactaceae family and is a slow-growing, long-lived plant that can reach heights of up to 10 feet (3 meters) and a diameter of up to 3 feet (1 meter). The plant is characterized by its large, ribbed, green stem that is covered in sharp, curved spines. Its flowers are red or yellow and bloom in the summer.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Caryophyllales |
| Family | Cactaceae |
| Genus | Ferocactus |
Appearance
Ferocactus Robustus is a large, round cactus with a thick, green stem that is covered in sharp, curved spines. The stem has numerous ribs that run vertically down its length, and it can grow up to 10 feet (3 meters) in height and 3 feet (1 meter) in diameter. The plant’s flowers are large and showy, with red or yellow petals that bloom in the summer.
Care Guide
Water: Ferocactus Robustus is a drought-tolerant plant that prefers dry soil. Water the plant sparingly, only when the soil is completely dry.Fertilization: Fertilize the plant once a year in the spring with a slow-release cactus fertilizer.Soil: Use a well-draining soil mix for cacti and succulents.Sunlight: Ferocactus Robustus thrives in full sun and needs at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day.Hardiness Zones: The plant is hardy in USDA zones 9-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Ferocactus Robustus is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, it can be susceptible to root rot if overwatered. To prevent this, make sure the soil is well-draining and only water the plant when the soil is completely dry.
Habitat
Ferocactus Robustus is native to Mexico and can be found in the states of Baja California, Baja California Sur, and Sonora. It grows in deserts and rocky areas at elevations of up to 4,000 feet (1,200 meters).
Question and Answer
Q: How often should I water Ferocactus Robustus?
A: Water the plant sparingly, only when the soil is completely dry.Q: What kind of soil does Ferocactus Robustus need?
A: Use a well-draining soil mix for cacti and succulents.Q: Is Ferocactus Robustus resistant to pests and diseases?
A: Yes, it is generally resistant to pests and diseases.Q: What is the hardiness zone for Ferocactus Robustus?
A: The plant is hardy in USDA zones 9-11.
Related Plants
- Ferocactus Latispinus
- Ferocactus Pilosus
- Ferocactus Pringlei
References
- “Ferocactus Robustus.” World of Succulents, 2021, https://worldofsucculents.com/ferocactus-robustus-mexican-giant-barrel-cactus/. Accessed 27 August 2021.
- “Ferocactus Robustus.” Desert-Tropicals, 2021, https://desert-tropicals.com/plant-families/cactaceae/ferocactus-robustus.html. Accessed 27 August 2021.
