Ferocactus
Ferocactus is a genus with about 30 varieties of large barrel cactus with large spines and tiny flowers. Young ferocactus look like a column, but they fill out as they get older. Many have hooked spines.
Some ferocacti host ant colonies that are drawn in by nectar exuded near the top spines.
Most Popular Types
Ferocactus latispinus has spines that curve back toward the cactus. Ferocactus histrix has a slate blue surface and yellow spines.
Light
Full sun
Temperatures
Ferocactus cannot withstand freezing temperatures for long periods. We recommend bringing your cactus indoors when nighttime temps drop to 40°F.
Watering
Water sparingly and infrequently.
Toxicity
No toxic effects have been reported. The spines could be dangerous, though.
Growth
The young cacti are columnar, then they round out. As they get older, they grow upward again.
Flowers appear after about 10 years in early to late spring.
Origin
Altiplano of Mexico
Propagation
There are a few ferocactus varieties that can be propagated by offsets, however the most common way to grow new ferocactus is from seed.
Dormancy
Winter dormant.
Ferocactus alamosanus
Ferocactus alamosarus appears to have blood spattered on its spines, but it has beautiful yellow flowers in the spring.
Blue barrel cacstus – Ferocactus glaucescens
Blue barrel cacstus – Ferocactus glaucescens
Close View Of Ferocactus Wislizeni In Botanical Garden
Close View Of Ferocactus Wislizeni In Botanical Garden
Workshops at Growing Hobby
Workshop schedule set for after work hours and on Sunday afternoons. We now have central heating and air to make you more comfortable while you shop and attend workshops.