Ferocactus gracilis
fire barrel cactus
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
Size
Ultimate height
0.5–1 metresTime to ultimate height
5–10 yearsUltimate spread
0.1–0.5 metresGrowing conditions
Moisture
Well–drainedpH
Acid, Alkaline, NeutralColour & scent
Stem | Flower | Foliage | Fruit | |
Spring | Green | |||
---|---|---|---|---|
Summer | Green | Red | ||
Autumn | Green | |||
Winter | Green |
Position
- Full sun
Aspect
East–facing or South–facing or West–facing
Exposure
Sheltered Hardiness
H2Botanical details
- Family
- Cactaceae
- Native to GB / Ireland
- No
- Foliage
- Evergreen
- Habit
- Columnar upright
- Genus
Ferocactus are spherical to columnar cacti with prominent ribs bearing spiny areoles, the spines sometimes hooked, and funnel-shaped flowers in summer
- Name status
Correct
- Plant range
- Mexico
How to grow
Cultivation
Grow 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
Propagation
Propagate by seed sown at 21°C in spring
Suggested planting locations and garden types
- Houseplants
- Patio and container plants
- Low Maintenance
- Conservatory and greenhouse
Pruning
No pruning required
Pests
May be susceptible to mealybugs
Diseases
May be susceptible to stem and root rots if overwatered
Get involved
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