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Description
Ferocactus Cylindraceus, commonly known as the Barrel Cactus, is a slow-growing cactus species native to the southwestern United States and Mexico. It is known for its cylindrical shape and impressive size, with mature specimens reaching up to 10 feet tall.The Barrel Cactus has a ribbed, green stem covered in sharp spines that can grow up to 4 inches long. Its stem can also store water, allowing it to survive in arid environments. During the summer, the cactus produces large, yellow flowers that attract pollinators like bees and hummingbirds.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Caryophyllales |
| Family | Cactaceae |
| Genus | Ferocactus |
Appearance
The Barrel Cactus can reach up to 10 feet tall and 3 feet wide, with a cylindrical shape and a ribbed, green stem covered in sharp spines. Its stem can also store water, allowing it to survive in arid environments. During the summer, the cactus produces large, yellow flowers that attract pollinators like bees and hummingbirds.
Care Guide
To care for your Barrel Cactus, follow these tips:Water: Water deeply once a month during the growing season (spring and summer), and reduce watering in the winter. Allow the soil to dry out completely between waterings.Fertilization: Fertilize once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.Soil: Plant your Barrel Cactus in well-draining soil, such as a cactus mix or sandy soil.Sunlight: Place your Barrel Cactus in full sun to partial shade. It can tolerate extreme heat and cold, but protect it from frost and freezing temperatures.Hardiness Zones: The Barrel Cactus can grow in USDA hardiness zones 9 to 11.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Barrel Cactus is generally pest and disease resistant. However, it can be susceptible to mealybugs, spider mites, and scale insects. If you notice any signs of infestation, treat your cactus with a natural insecticide.
Habitat
The Barrel Cactus is native to the Sonoran and Mojave Deserts in the southwestern United States and Mexico. It can be found growing in rocky, well-draining soil in desert habitats.
Question and Answer
Q: Can I grow a Barrel Cactus indoors?
A: Yes, you can grow a Barrel Cactus indoors as long as it is placed in a sunny window and provided with well-draining soil and proper watering.Q: How often should I water my Barrel Cactus?
A: Water deeply once a month during the growing season (spring and summer), and reduce watering in the winter. Allow the soil to dry out completely between waterings.Q: Can I propagate my Barrel Cactus?
A: Yes, you can propagate your Barrel Cactus by taking stem cuttings and allowing them to callus over before planting in well-draining soil.Q: How tall can a Barrel Cactus grow?
A: The Barrel Cactus can reach up to 10 feet tall and 3 feet wide in ideal growing conditions.
Related Plants
Other cactus species in the Ferocactus genus include:
- Ferocactus glaucescens
- Ferocactus histrix
- Ferocactus latispinus
- Ferocactus pilosus
References
- “Ferocactus cylindraceus.” Cactus Art Nursery, cactus-art.biz/schede/FEROCACTUS/Ferocactus_cylindraceus/Ferocactus_cylindraceus/Ferocactus_cylindraceus.htm.
- “Ferocactus cylindraceus.” World of Succulents, worldofsucculents.com/ferocactus-cylindraceus-barrel-cactus/.
- “Ferocactus cylindraceus.” Desert-Tropicals, desert-tropicals.com/Plants/Cactaceae/Ferocactus_cylindraceus.html.
