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Description
Ferocactus Townsendianus, commonly known as Townsend’s Barrel Cactus, is a species of cactus native to Mexico. It is a slow-growing and solitary cactus that can reach up to 3 feet in height and 2 feet in diameter. The plant has a cylindrical shape with deep ribs that are covered with sharp spines. It produces bright yellow flowers that bloom in late spring and early summer. The plant’s fruit is edible and has a sweet taste.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Caryophyllales |
| Family | Cactaceae |
| Genus | Ferocactus |
| Species | Townsendianus |
Appearance
The Ferocactus Townsendianus has a cylindrical shape with deep ribs that are covered in sharp spines. The spines vary in color from yellow to brown and can be up to 3 inches long. The plant’s stem is green and can grow up to 3 feet in height and 2 feet in diameter. It produces bright yellow flowers that are around 2 inches in diameter and bloom in late spring and early summer. The fruit of the plant is edible and has a sweet taste.
Care Guide
To take care of Ferocactus Townsendianus, you should water the plant sparingly during the growing season, which is from spring to fall. The cactus should be allowed to dry out between watering. During the winter, the plant should be watered less frequently. The plant prefers well-draining soil, and you should avoid over-watering as it can lead to root rot. The plant should be fertilized once a month during the growing season with a balanced cactus fertilizer. The plant prefers full sun and is hardy in USDA zones 9-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Ferocactus Townsendianus can be affected by pests such as mealybugs, spider mites, and scale insects. These pests can be controlled by spraying the plant with neem oil or insecticidal soap. The plant can also be affected by diseases such as stem rot, which is caused by over-watering or poor drainage. To prevent stem rot, make sure the plant is in well-draining soil and avoid over-watering.
Habitat
Ferocactus Townsendianus is native to Mexico and can be found growing in rocky and dry areas. The plant prefers well-draining soil and full sun exposure. It is commonly found growing in desert regions such as the Sonoran Desert and the Chihuahuan Desert.
Question and Answer
Q: How often should I water Ferocactus Townsendianus?
A: Water the plant sparingly during the growing season, which is from spring to fall. The cactus should be allowed to dry out between watering. During the winter, the plant should be watered less frequently.
Q: What kind of fertilizer should I use for Ferocactus Townsendianus?
A: Use a balanced cactus fertilizer and apply it once a month during the growing season.
Q: What are the common pests that affect Ferocactus Townsendianus?
A: Some of the common pests that affect Ferocactus Townsendianus are mealybugs, spider mites, and scale insects.
Q: What is the hardiness zone for Ferocactus Townsendianus?
A: Ferocactus Townsendianus is hardy in USDA zones 9-11.
Related Plants
- Ferocactus Glaucescens
- Ferocactus Gracilis
- Ferocactus Peninsulae
- Ferocactus Robustus
References
- The Spruce. (2021). Ferocactus Townsendianus Care Guide. https://www.thespruce.com/ferocactus-townsendianus-1902742
- Cactus Art. (2021). Ferocactus Townsendianus. https://cactus-art.biz/schede/FEROCACTUS/Ferocactus_townsendianus/Ferocactus_townsendianus/Ferocactus_townsendianus.htm
- World of Succulents. (2021). Ferocactus Townsendianus (Townsend’s Barrel Cactus). https://worldofsucculents.com/ferocactus-townsendianus-townsend-barrel-cactus/
