I am a solitary or clustering cylindrical cactus with pronounced vertical ribs running from top to bottom.

My most iconic feature is my barrel-like shape—wider in the middle and tapered at the top and bottom. I can grow from a small globe to a massive column over time.

My ribs are lined with long, stout, often hooked central spines surrounded by smaller radial spines, creating a fierce but beautiful armor. Spine color can be yellow, red, or white.

When in bloom (usually in spring/summer after rains), I produce a ring of vibrant, cup-shaped flowers in yellow, red, orange, or pink at my crown.

I am native to the arid deserts of the southwestern United States and northern Mexico.

I am a highly drought-tolerant desert cactus. My water needs are minimal.

Use the "soak and dry" method extremely infrequently. Water deeply only when the soil is bone-dry for an extended period. In summer, this might be once a month; in winter, I need no water at all.

Overwatering is the #1 cause of death. I am extremely prone to root and stem rot if left in moist soil.

Perfect drainage and a dry winter are non-negotiable for my survival.

I am a full sun devotee. I require maximum sunlight—at least 6-8 hours of direct, unfiltered sun daily—to maintain my compact shape and health.

I can tolerate very intense, reflected heat. Insufficient sun leads to etiolation (the top becomes thin and weak) and poor spine development.

I am unsuitable for low-light conditions and should never be grown as a typical houseplant unless under intense grow lights.

I thrive in hot, dry desert climates and am best suited to USDA zones 9-11.

My ideal range is 21°C to 35°C.

I am quite cold-hardy for a cactus; many species can tolerate brief temperatures down to -7°C if the soil is completely dry. Wet winter soil combined with cold is fatal.

I am a cornerstone of desert landscaping, xeriscapes, rock gardens, and large containers in sunny courtyards.

Plant me in extremely well-draining, mineral-based soil. Use a cactus/succulent mix amended heavily with coarse sand, pumice, or crushed granite (up to 50-70% grit).

Ensure the planting site or container has perfect drainage. My crown should sit slightly above soil level.

Handle with extreme care using thick gloves and tongs. My spines are sharp and can cause serious injury.

I am an exceptionally light feeder. Fertilizing is rarely needed.

If grown in a very poor container mix, apply a diluted, low-nitrogen cactus fertilizer once in early spring.

Over-fertilizing causes weak, bloated growth that is susceptible to pests and rot.

Scientific Name: Ferocactus spp. (e.g., F. wislizeni, F. cylindraceus) and Echinocactus spp. (e.g., E. grusonii, the Golden Barrel)

Common Names: Barrel Cactus, Compass Cactus (some lean south), Fishhook Cactus (for hooked spines)

Plant Family: Cactaceae

Plant Type: Perennial succulent cactus

While not chemically toxic, my spines pose a severe puncture, laceration, and infection risk to curious pets. The real danger is physical injury. Keep me in an area inaccessible to pets.

Minimal. My role is not air purification but survival and adaptation in extreme environments. I contribute to outdoor ecosystems by providing shelter for small animals.