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Cactus Succulent

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

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Size
Ultimate height
0.5–1 metres
Time to ultimate height
5–10 years
Ultimate spread
0.1–0.5 metres
Growing conditions
Loam
Sand
Moisture
Well–drained
pH
Acid, Alkaline, Neutral
Colour & scent
StemFlowerFoliageFruit
Spring Green
Summer Green Red
Autumn Green
Winter Green
Position
  • Full sun
Aspect

East–facing or South–facing or West–facing

Exposure
Sheltered
Hardiness
H2
Botanical 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

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