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Description
Ferocactus Viridescens, also known as the green barrel cactus or the candy barrel cactus, is a species of cactus native to Mexico. It is a slow-growing, barrel-shaped plant that can reach up to 3 feet in height and 2 feet in diameter. Its stem is covered in 20-30 vertical ribs and is adorned with sharp spines that can be up to 3 inches long. The cactus produces colorful flowers that are yellow or orange in color and bloom in the summer.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Caryophyllales |
| Family | Cactaceae |
| Genus | Ferocactus |
Appearance
The green barrel cactus is a striking plant with a unique appearance. Its stem is covered in vertical ribs that give it a ridged appearance, and it is adorned with long, sharp spines. The stem can range in color from green to gray-green, and it can grow up to 3 feet in height and 2 feet in diameter. The cactus produces colorful flowers that are yellow or orange in color and bloom in the summer. The flowers are large and showy, and they can be up to 3 inches in diameter.
Care Guide
The green barrel cactus is a hardy plant that is relatively easy to care for. Here are some tips for keeping your cactus healthy:
- Water: The cactus should be watered sparingly, only when the soil is completely dry. Overwatering can lead to root rot and other problems.
- Fertilization: The cactus should be fertilized once a month during the growing season with a cactus-specific fertilizer.
- Soil: The cactus should be planted in well-draining soil that is specifically formulated for cacti and succulents.
- Sunlight: The cactus needs plenty of sunlight to thrive, so it should be placed in a bright, sunny location.
- Hardiness Zones: The green barrel cactus is hardy in USDA zones 9-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
The green barrel cactus is generally resistant to pests and diseases, but it can be susceptible to a few common problems:
- Mealybugs: These small, white insects can infest the cactus and suck its sap, causing it to weaken and become discolored. Mealybugs can be treated with a solution of dish soap and water.
- Root Rot: Overwatering can lead to root rot, which can cause the cactus to wilt and die. If you suspect root rot, reduce watering and remove any affected roots.
- Scale Insects: These small, oval insects can infest the cactus and cause it to become discolored and weakened. Scale insects can be treated with a solution of neem oil and water.
Habitat
The green barrel cactus is native to Mexico and can be found in desert regions throughout the country. It grows in rocky, well-drained soil and can tolerate extreme temperatures and drought conditions.
Question and Answer
Q: How often should I water my green barrel cactus?
A: The cactus should be watered sparingly, only when the soil is completely dry.
Q: What kind of soil should I use for my green barrel cactus?
A: The cactus should be planted in well-draining soil that is specifically formulated for cacti and succulents.
Q: What should I do if I suspect my green barrel cactus has root rot?
A: Reduce watering and remove any affected roots.
Q: What is the hardiness zone for the green barrel cactus?
A: The cactus is hardy in USDA zones 9-11.
Related Plants
- Ferocactus pilosus
- Ferocactus latispinus
- Ferocactus chrysacanthus
References
- Anderson, E. F. (2001). The cactus family. Timber Press.
- Arizona State University. (n.d.). Ferocactus viridescens. Retrieved from https://cals.arizona.edu/yavapaiplants/SpeciesDetail.php?genus=Ferocactus&species=viridescens
- University of California Agriculture and Natural Resources. (n.d.). Ferocactus. Retrieved from https://ucanr.edu/sites/cactiguide/Ferocactus/
