Ferocactus Gracilis

Description

Ferocactus Gracilis is a cactus species belonging to the family Cactaceae. It is native to Mexico and is commonly found in the Sonoran Desert. The plant can grow up to 3 feet tall and 2 feet wide. It has a cylindrical shape, with a ribbed and spiny exterior. The spines can grow up to 2 inches long and are usually yellow or red in color. The flowers of Ferocactus Gracilis are yellow or red and bloom in the summer.

Taxonomic Information

Domain	Eukarya
Kingdom	Plantae
Phylum	Tracheophyta
Class	Magnoliopsida
Order	Caryophyllales
Family	Cactaceae
Genus	Ferocactus

Appearance

Ferocactus Gracilis has a cylindrical shape with a ribbed exterior. The plant usually grows up to 3 feet tall and 2 feet wide. The spines on the cactus are usually yellow or red and can grow up to 2 inches long. The flowers of Ferocactus Gracilis are yellow or red and bloom in the summer.

Care Guide

Water: Ferocactus Gracilis is a drought-tolerant plant and does not require frequent watering. It is important to let the soil dry out completely between waterings.Fertilization: Ferocactus Gracilis does not require frequent fertilization. Fertilize the plant once every two months during the growing season with a cactus fertilizer.Soil: Ferocactus Gracilis prefers well-draining soil. Use a cactus soil mix or add perlite to regular potting soil to improve drainage.Sunlight: Ferocactus Gracilis prefers full sun exposure. It can tolerate some shade, but it needs at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day.Hardiness Zones: Ferocactus Gracilis can tolerate temperatures as low as 20°F (-6°C). It is hardy in USDA zones 9-11.

Common Pests & Diseases

Ferocactus Gracilis is susceptible to mealybugs and spider mites. To prevent infestations, keep the plant in a well-ventilated area and avoid overwatering. If you notice pests, use a cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol to remove them.

Habitat

Ferocactus Gracilis is native to Mexico and is commonly found in the Sonoran Desert. It grows in rocky and sandy soil, often on hillsides or slopes.

Question and Answer

Q: Does Ferocactus Gracilis require frequent watering?
A: No, Ferocactus Gracilis is a drought-tolerant plant and does not require frequent watering.Q: What is the hardiness zone for Ferocactus Gracilis?
A: Ferocactus Gracilis is hardy in USDA zones 9-11.Q: Can Ferocactus Gracilis tolerate shade?
A: Ferocactus Gracilis prefers full sun exposure but can tolerate some shade.Q: What pests are Ferocactus Gracilis susceptible to?
A: Ferocactus Gracilis is susceptible to mealybugs and spider mites.

Related Plants

Here are some related cactus species:

• Ferocactus Latispinus
• Ferocactus Pilosus
• Ferocactus Peninsulae
• Ferocactus Emoryi

References

• “Ferocactus Gracilis.” Desert-Tropicals, www.desert-tropicals.com/Plants/Cactaceae/Ferocactus_gracilis.html.
• “Ferocactus Gracilis.” World of Succulents, worldofsucculents.com/ferocactus-gracilis-skinny-barrel-cactus/.
• “Ferocactus Gracilis.” Cactus Art Nursery, www.cactus-art.biz/schede/FEROCACTUS/Ferocactus_gracilis/Ferocactus_gracilis/f_g.html.