If you’re considering getting a barrel cactus for your home, you’re in for a treat! These succulents are easy to care for and make great additions to any room.
The barrel cactus is a round, spiny cactus native to the deserts of Mexico and the southwestern United States.
These cacti can grow over 6′ feet tall and 3′ feet wide and are often used as ornamental plants in landscaping.
Barrel cacti are one of the most recognizable types of cactus, thanks to their unique shape and large size.
These plants have a thick central stem topped with a ring of large, spiny flowers. The flowers are usually yellow or red and bloom in the springtime.
The barrel cactus is a popular choice for beginner cactus growers because it is relatively easy to care for.
In addition, these plants are drought-tolerant and can survive in hot, dry climates with little water. However, barrel cacti do need some attention to thrive.
Some of the common household names for the barrel cactus include:
- Candy Barrel Cactus
- Prickly Pear
- Cow’s Tongue
- Spanish Needles
The barrel cactus is called the candy barrel cactus because its fruits are edible and taste like candy.
Further, the barbed spines on the pads of prickly pear cactus can easily puncture an unsuspecting hiker’s skin, delivering a painful sting.
Additionally, the plant produces a sticky sap that can get on your skin and clothes, making it difficult to remove. Hence, the common name ‘prickly pear’ and ‘Spanish needles.’
Lastly, it is called a cow’s tongue cactus because the shape of its pads resembles a cow’s tongue.
The two scientific names for Barrel cactus are:
- Ferocactus cylindraceus
- Echinocactus grusonii
Here are a few reasons why you might want to get one:
- Barrel cacti are drought tolerant and can survive with little water.
- They are slow growing, so you won’t have to worry about them getting too big for your space.
- Barrel cacti are beautiful and come in a variety of colors.
- They are low maintenance and don’t require much care.
Now that you know the basics of caring for your barrel cactus, let’s dive into all the details every plant enthusiast needs to know about the barrel cactus.
Quick Facts On Barrel Cactus
- Family: Cactaceae
- Light: Full sun
- Temperature: 70° to 90° degrees Fahrenheit
- Water: Moderate watering
- Fertilizer: Low nitrogen fertilizer
- Propagation: Offsets
- Common Problems: Nematodes, scale, mealybugs, root rot
Barrel Cactus Care
Barrel cactus is easy to grow and makes a great houseplant or addition to your outdoor cactus garden.
These hardy plants don’t require much care, but there are a few things to keep in mind to ensure your barrel cactus stays happy and healthy.
By following these simple tips, you can keep your barrel cactus healthy and happy for many years to come!
What Does The Barrel Cactus Look Like, And How Big Does It Grow?
The barrel cactus is a type of cactus that is native to the deserts of North America.
These cacti can grow quite large, with some specimens reaching heights of 12′ feet or more.
Barrel cacti are easily recognizable thanks to their round, barrel-shaped bodies and spines that cover the plant’s surface.
When grown indoors, barrel cacti are typically much smaller, only reaching 2′ to 3′ feet.
However, these plants make great houseplants, thanks to their low maintenance care requirements.
When Does Barrel Cactus Flower? Are The Flowers Fragrant?
The barrel cactus blooms in the spring and summer months. The flowers are typically white or yellow and have a sweet, floral scent.
It also bears fruit in the form of small, red berries.
What Are The Lighting Needs And Temperature Requirements?
Lighting requirements for desert cacti are intense. They will do best in a sunny location with at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily.
If you live in an area with hot summers, it’s best to provide some afternoon shade for your cactus.
When grown indoors, provide your barrel cactus with a south-facing window for the best lighting.
You can supplement with grow lights if you don’t have a south-facing window.
During the winter, desert cacti need a rest period with cooler temperatures and less light.
They will do fine in a south-facing window during this time, but protect them from drafts.
Temperature requirements for desert cacti are also challenging.
They prefer hot days and cool nights, with daytime temperatures of about 80° to 90° degrees Fahrenheit and nighttime temperatures ranging from 50° to 60° degrees Fahrenheit.
f you live in an area with milder winters, your cactus can be outdoors year-round. Otherwise, it’s best to bring it indoors during the winter months.
When grown indoors, barrel cacti do best in a room with average household temperatures.
They can tolerate fluctuations in temperature, but drafts should be avoided.
How And When To Water And Fertilize Barrel Cactus?
Barrel cactus are succulents and therefore don’t require a lot of water. In fact, too much water can be detrimental to their health.
Water your cactus every two to three weeks during summer, allowing the soil to dry out completely between waterings. In the winter, reduce watering to once a month.
Using distilled water or rainwater for your cactus is a good idea if you live in an area with hard water. This will help prevent mineral build-up on the plant.
Barrel cacti will need less water when grown indoors than their outdoor counterparts.
Water indoor plants once every two weeks, allowing the soil to dry out completely between waterings.
Fertilize your cactus once a year in the spring using a cactus fertilizer. Be sure to follow the directions on the package for the best results.
Over-fertilization can damage your cactus, so it’s best to err on caution.
What Is The Best Soil For Barrel Cactus, And When Should You Transplant?
The best soil for barrel cactus is a sandy, well-drained mix. If you live in an area with heavy clay soils, it’s a good idea to amend the soil with sand or gravel to improve drainage.
When transplanting, be sure to handle your cactus carefully. These plants are delicate and can easily be damaged.
It’s best to transplant in the spring or summer when the plant is actively growing.
To transplant, simply remove the cactus from its current pot and place it in a new one that is only slightly larger.
Backfill with fresh potting mix and water well. Allow the soil to dry out completely before watering again.
Does Barrel Cactus Need Special Grooming Or Maintenance?
No, the barrel cactus doesn’t require any special grooming or maintenance. Simply wipe the plant down with a damp cloth from time to time to remove any dust that has accumulated on the leaves.
If you notice any dead leaves or stems, you can remove them by gently cutting them away from the plant with a sharp knife.
Be careful of spines when you are wiping the plant down. You can use a soft paintbrush or a lint roller to do this without injuring yourself.
How To Over-Winter Barrel Cactus?
If you live in an area with cold winters, it’s best to bring your barrel cactus indoors for the winter months.
These plants are not frost-tolerant and will not survive if left outdoors in freezing temperatures.
When bringing your plant indoors, place it in a south-facing window where it will receive plenty of sunlight.
If possible, maintain a room temperature between 60° to 70° degrees Fahrenheit.
During the winter months, water your cactus less frequently than you do during the summer.
Once every month should be sufficient. Allow the soil to dry out completely before watering again.
Do not fertilize your cactus during the winter months.
How To Propagate Prickly Pear Plant?
If you’re looking for a fun and easy plant to propagate, look no further than the prickly pear (Opuntia species)!
Also known as the prickly pear plant, these succulents are native to North America and are actually quite easy to grow from stem cuttings.
Simply take a cutting from a healthy plant, remove the lower leaves, and allow the cutting to be callous over for a few days before planting in well-draining soil.
Water regularly until roots have formed, and then you can begin to water less frequently.
Barrel Cactus Pests And Diseases
The main pests that affect barrel cactus are scale insects, mealybugs, and root-knot nematodes. Scale insects can be controlled with horticultural oils or insecticidal soaps.
Mealybugs can be controlled with the use of systemic insecticides.
Root-knot nematodes can be problematic if the barrel cactus is grown in infested soil. The best way to control root-knot nematodes is to solarize the soil before planting.
Diseases that affect barrel cactus include root rot, stem rot, and wilt. Root rot can be caused by overwatering or growing the cactus in poorly draining soil.
Injuries to the plant can cause stem rot. Several different fungi can cause wilt. The best way to prevent diseases is to plant the cactus in well-draining soil and to avoid injuring the plant.
With proper care, barrel cactus can be easy to grow and long-lived. These plants tolerate drought and can thrive in hot, dry conditions. They are also relatively resistant to pests and diseases. As such, barrel cactus makes an excellent addition to any landscape.
Suggested Uses For Candy Barrel Cactus
Candy Barrel Cactus can be used as an accent plant in desert landscapes. It can also be grown in containers and makes an excellent houseplant.
In addition, the barrel cactus can be used in xeriscaping projects.
For example, you can use it in landscape beds with full sun and well-drained soil. You can also use this plant in rock gardens or as an accent in cactus gardens.
The Spanish needles plant is heat and drought-tolerant, so it’s perfect for those who don’t have a green thumb!
And, if you live in an area where deer are a problem, prickly pears are also deer resistant.
It is a beautiful and easy-to-care-for plant that makes a great addition to any home. With proper care, these plants can thrive for many years.
So if you’re looking for a low-maintenance plant to add to your collection, consider the barrel cactus!