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(Ferocactus cylindraceus)
California Barrel Cactus (Ferocactus cylindraceus)
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Stan Shebs
CC BY-SA 3.0
Image By:
Stan Shebs
Recorded By:
Copyright:
CC BY-SA 3.0
Copyright Notice:
Photo by: Stan Shebs | License Type: CC BY-SA 3.0 | License URL: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/3.0 | Uploader: Stan Shebs | Publisher: Wikimedia Commons | Title: Ferocactus_cylindraceus_1.jpg | Notes: from [[w:File:Barrel Cactus Cluster Sahuarita Arizona 2013.jpg]] ([[Commons:CommonsMover|CM]]) |
Estimated Native Range
Summary
Ferocactus cylindraceus, commonly known as California Barrel Cactus, is an evergreen succulent native to the arid regions of the Southwestern United States and Mexico. This plant typically exhibits a cylindrical or spherical shape, with mature specimens capable of forming columns up to 2 meters (6.6 ft) in height. The cactus is characterized by its long, abundant spines that are straight and red when young, transitioning to curved and gray as they mature. It produces showy flowers that are maroon on the exterior and bright yellow inside, with red or yellow centers that orient towards the sun. The fleshy, hollow fruits are yellow and can persist on the plant for extended periods.
The California Barrel Cactus is valued for its striking appearance and low maintenance requirements, making it a popular choice for xeriscaping and rock gardens. It thrives in full sun and requires minimal water, adapting well to soils with excellent drainage. While it is slow-growing, its longevity and ability to withstand extreme heat and drought are notable. Gardeners should handle this cactus with care due to its sharp spines. It is not typically used for culinary or medicinal purposes, but it is an important source of food and water for desert wildlife.CC BY-SA 4.0
The California Barrel Cactus is valued for its striking appearance and low maintenance requirements, making it a popular choice for xeriscaping and rock gardens. It thrives in full sun and requires minimal water, adapting well to soils with excellent drainage. While it is slow-growing, its longevity and ability to withstand extreme heat and drought are notable. Gardeners should handle this cactus with care due to its sharp spines. It is not typically used for culinary or medicinal purposes, but it is an important source of food and water for desert wildlife.CC BY-SA 4.0
Plant Description
- Plant Type: Succulent
- Height: 5-9 feet
- Width: 1.3-2.6 feet
- Growth Rate: Slow
- Flower Color: Yellow
- Flowering Season: Spring, Summer
- Leaf Retention: Evergreen
Growth Requirements
- Sun: Full Sun
- Water: Very Low, Low
- Drainage: Fast
Common Uses
Drought Tolerant, Low Maintenance, Rock Garden
Natural Habitat
native to the arid regions of the Southwestern United States and Mexico
Other Names
Common Names: Desert Barrel Cactus, Miner’s Compass
Scientific Names: , Ferocactus cylindraceus, Ferocactus cylindraceus var. cylindraceus, Echinocactus leopoldii,
GBIF Accepted Name: Ferocactus cylindraceus (Engelm.) Orcutt