Ferocactus is a genus of large barrel-shaped cacti, mostly with large spines and small flowers. When young, they begin with a spherical shape and eventually become more cylindrical. Depending on the species, they slowly reach 2 to 10 feet (0.6 to 3 m) tall and 1.5 to 3 feet (45 to 90 cm) in diameter. The species are found in the southwestern United States and northwestern Mexico. They grow best in USDA Plant Hardiness Zones 9 through 10.
Growing Conditions
Light: Choose a location that receives direct sun during all or most of the day because Ferocactus cacti eventually lean into the sun instead of growing precisely upright. Because they have extremely sharp thorns, place them where people will not brush into them accidentally.
Soil: Plant your Ferocactus in early spring before new roots form. The roots may appear dry, which is typical before new growth begins. Dig a hole deep enough for the roots of the plant and amend it as needed to provide fast-draining soil. Ferocactus thrive in poor and arid soil.
Water the cactus at the planting time to anchor it into the soil. Water again only if the weather in your area is unseasonably dry and if normal spring or winter rainfall does not occur.
General Care
Water after these cacti are established only during unseasonable drought conditions. Otherwise, rainfall provides the only necessary irrigation. Ferocactus needs a dormant period with dry soil during the winter.
Drape Ferocactus with burlap or other fabric if a heavy frost is predicted in your area, as it is sensitive and could be damaged by cold temperatures.
Mulch your cactus with decomposed granite or small pebbles for decorative purposes to mimic the plant's native habitat. Ferocactus is naturally fire-resistant, and mulching with stone increases the fire resistance of your entire landscape.
Ferocactus thrives with no fertilizer.
Source: sfgate.com
Links
- Back to genus Ferocactus
- Succupedia: Browse succulents by Scientific Name, Common Name, Genus, Family, USDA Hardiness Zone, Origin, or cacti by Genus