About
A globular, ribbed cactus becoming cylindrical to 70cm tall with age. The stem is dark green and bears fine, white radial spines and pink to reddish-brown, flattened central spines. In early summer it produces funnel-shaped red flowers.
About the genus
Ferocactus are spherical to columnar cacti with prominent ribs bearing spiny areoles, the spines sometimes hooked, and funnel-shaped flowers in summer
Growing conditions
SunlightFull sun
Soil typeLoam, Sand
Soil pHAcid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moistureWell-drained
AspectEast-facing, South-facing, West-facing
ExposureSheltered
UK hardinessH2
Plant details
Plant typeCactus Succulent
HabitColumnar upright
FoliageEvergreen
Height0.5-1 metres
Spread0.1-0.5 metres
Time to full height5-10 years
Suggested usesHouseplants, Patio and container plants
Native toMexico
Care notes
CultivationGrow in cactus compost in a sunny position. Water moderately during the growing season and keep almost dry in winter. See houseplant cacti and succulent cultivation for further information
PruningNo pruning required
PropagationPropagate by seed sown at 21°C in spring
Pest resistanceMay be susceptible to mealybugs
Disease resistanceMay be susceptible to stem and root rots if overwatered