Ferocactus gracilis
Ferocactus
Photo of Ferocactus gracilis - Ferocactus
No photo for the moment for Ferocactus gracilis - Ferocactus
Please note: You must be the owner of the posted photo and it must not be copyrighted.
Things You Must Knows cannot be held responsible for photos posted in violation of this rule
Common Name:
Plant Type:
Sun (From 0 to 5):
Water (From 0 to 5):
Maximum temperature:
Minimum temperature:
Maximum height:
Maximum width:
Ferocactus (Ferocactus gracilis) - Description
A unique version of cactus barrel that has two distinct sets of needles that virtually hides the cactus underneath. The familiar white hooked shaped needles are dwarfed by large reddish brown needles forming a second layer of defense. Quite beautiful, but plant in a location no one will bump into it!
Ferocactus (Ferocactus gracilis) - Blooming
Barrel cacti bloom later than most other cacti.
Ferocactus (Ferocactus gracilis) - Growth
They are desert dwellers and can cope with some frost and intense heat. In cultivation they require full sun, and little water but good drainage. Does well in low humidity. Miniature varieties do well in containers if put in a south window. Full sun leads to better spination.
Ferocactus (Ferocactus gracilis) - Planting
Sow seeds in spring at 50-68°F (10-20°C).
Ferocactus (Ferocactus gracilis) - Pest
Mealybugs. Ferocactus are also susceptible to cactus virus X and fungal rots.
Ferocactus (Ferocactus gracilis) - Interesting facts
Tipped over barrel cacti are not due to being top-heavy with water, but from their habit of growing towards the sun. Getting water from a wild Ferocactus is a lot more difficult than legends suggest, and usually illegal as wild plants are protected by state laws.
Ferocactus (Ferocactus gracilis) - Soil and irrigation
A desert native, this cactus requires no irrigation. Try to keep dry in winter, or at least protect from heavy rains (especially the root zone). Ferocactus does best in poor soil that is fast-draining. In containers, use a cactus soil mix with perlite.
