About
This cactus with lime green, usually solitary, globose or cylindric, shallowly ribbed stems to 30cm in height; central spines yellow, curved, to 5cm in length. Flowers 5cm, green or tinged with red.
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
AspectSouth-facing, North-facing, East-facing
ExposureSheltered
UK hardinessH1C
Plant details
Plant typeCactus Succulent, Houseplants, Conservatory Greenhouse
HabitClump forming
FoliageEvergreen
Height0.1-0.5 metres
Spread0.1-0.5 metres
Time to full height10-20 years
Suggested usesPatio and container plants
Native toUSA, Mexico
Care notes
CultivationGrow under glass in a standard cactus compost, in bright, filtered light, with low humidity. When in growth water moderately and feed every two or three weeks with a balanced liquid feed. Keep almost dry in the winter
PruningNo pruning required
PropagationPropagate by seed sown at 10 - 20°C in early spring
Pest resistanceMay be susceptible to mealybugs
Disease resistanceGenerally disease-free