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Description
Ferocactus Wislizeni, also known as Arizona barrel cactus, is a species of cactus native to the southwestern United States and northwestern Mexico. It is a slow-growing plant that can reach up to 10 feet in height and 3 feet in diameter. The cactus has a cylindrical shape with long, sharp spines that can grow up to 6 inches in length. The spines are yellow to brown in color and grow in clusters around the cactus’s stem. Ferocactus Wislizeni blooms in late spring to early summer with bright yellow flowers that grow at the top of the cactus.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Caryophyllales |
| Family | Cactaceae |
| Genus | Ferocactus |
Appearance
Ferocactus Wislizeni has a greenish-blue stem covered in long, sharp spines that grow in clusters. The cactus can grow up to 10 feet in height and 3 feet in diameter. The spines are yellow to brown in color and can grow up to 6 inches in length. The cactus produces bright yellow flowers that grow at the top of the plant in late spring to early summer. The flowers are tubular in shape and can be up to 3 inches in length.
Care Guide
Ferocactus Wislizeni is a hardy plant that is easy to care for. Here are some tips for caring for your Arizona barrel cactus:- Water: Water your cactus sparingly, especially during the winter months when it is dormant. Allow the soil to dry out completely between waterings.- Fertilization: Fertilize your cactus during the growing season with a cactus-specific fertilizer.- Soil: Plant your cactus in a well-draining soil mix that is specifically designed for cacti and succulents.- Sunlight: Ferocactus Wislizeni prefers full sun and can tolerate high temperatures.- Hardiness Zones: Ferocactus Wislizeni is hardy in USDA zones 9-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Ferocactus Wislizeni is relatively pest and disease resistant. However, it can be susceptible to mealybugs and spider mites. To prevent pest infestations, inspect your cactus regularly and treat any pests immediately. Overwatering can also lead to root rot, which can be fatal for your cactus.
Habitat
Ferocactus Wislizeni is native to the southwestern United States and northwestern Mexico. It grows in desert climates at elevations up to 6,000 feet. The cactus prefers rocky, well-draining soils and full sun.
Question and Answer
Q: How often should I water my Ferocactus Wislizeni?
A: Water your cactus sparingly, allowing the soil to dry out completely between waterings.
Q: Can Ferocactus Wislizeni tolerate high temperatures?
A: Yes, Arizona barrel cactus prefers full sun and can tolerate high temperatures.
Q: Is Ferocactus Wislizeni susceptible to pest infestations?
A: While relatively pest-resistant, Ferocactus Wislizeni can be susceptible to mealybugs and spider mites.
Q: What hardiness zones is Ferocactus Wislizeni hardy in?
A: Ferocactus Wislizeni is hardy in USDA zones 9-11.
Related Plants
– Ferocactus latispinus- Ferocactus glaucescens- Ferocactus herrerae- Ferocactus pilosus
References
– “Ferocactus Wislizeni.” The Spruce, The Spruce, 7 May 2021, www.thespruce.com/ferocactus-wislizeni-3269437.- “Ferocactus Wislizeni.” World of Succulents, World of Succulents, 2021, worldofsucculents.com/ferocactus-wislizeni-arizona-barrel-cactus/.
