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Description
Echinocactus Grusonii, also known as the Golden Barrel Cactus, is a popular species of cacti native to central Mexico. It is a slow-growing, globular-shaped plant that can reach up to 3 feet in height and 2 feet in diameter. The plant features numerous ribs that run vertically along its body, and its spines are golden-yellow in color. The flowers of the Echinocactus Grusonii are yellow to reddish and bloom in summer.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Caryophyllales |
| Family | Cactaceae |
| Genus | Echinocactus |
| Species | E. Grusonii |
Appearance
The Echinocactus Grusonii is a beautiful cactus with a striking appearance. Its golden-yellow spines are its most notable feature, and they grow in clusters from the numerous ribs that run vertically along the plant’s body. The plant’s globular shape is also unique, and it can grow up to 3 feet in height and 2 feet in diameter. During the summer, the Echinocactus Grusonii blooms with yellow to reddish flowers that add a pop of color to the plant.
Care Guide
Taking care of the Echinocactus Grusonii is relatively easy, making it a great plant for beginners. Here are some care tips to keep in mind:Water: The Golden Barrel Cactus is a drought-tolerant plant, and overwatering can cause root rot. Water the plant sparingly, only when the soil is dry to the touch.Fertilization: Fertilize the plant once a year in spring with a cactus-specific fertilizer.Soil: Use a well-draining soil mix specifically formulated for cacti and succulents.Sunlight: The Echinocactus Grusonii needs full sunlight to thrive.Hardiness Zones: The plant is hardy in USDA zones 9-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Echinocactus Grusonii is a relatively pest-free plant, but it can be susceptible to mealybugs and spider mites. Root rot can also occur if the plant is overwatered.
Habitat
The Echinocactus Grusonii is native to central Mexico, where it grows in rocky, well-draining soil. It prefers full sunlight and is drought-tolerant, making it well-suited to arid climates.
Question and Answer
Q: How often should I water my Echinocactus Grusonii?
A: Water the plant sparingly, only when the soil is dry to the touch.Q: What type of soil is best for the Golden Barrel Cactus?
A: Use a well-draining soil mix specifically formulated for cacti and succulents.Q: What are the common pests that can affect the Echinocactus Grusonii?
A: Mealybugs and spider mites can be a problem for this plant.Q: What is the hardiness zone for the Golden Barrel Cactus?
A: The plant is hardy in USDA zones 9-11.
Related Plants
Here are some related cacti species:- Echinocactus Platycanthus- Echinocactus Texensis- Echinocactus Horizonthalonius- Echinocactus Parryi
References
– “Echinocactus Grusonii.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed 18 May 2021, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=287373.- “Golden Barrel Cactus Care: Growing Echinocactus Grusonii.” Gardening Know How. Accessed 18 May 2021, www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/cacti-succulents/golden-barrel-cactus/golden-barrel-cactus-care.htm.
