Succulents – Barrel Cactus

Barrel Cactus 

Botanical name: ferocactus cylindraceus 

Beginner friendly?: yes 

Average size at maturity: can reach up to 4 ft in height and 2 ft in spread if grown in tropical or indoor environments

Hardy zone: zones 9-11 

Foliage color: green, yellow

Flower color: green, yellow 

Bloom time: spring, summer 

Growth rate: very slow growing, grows only 1-3 inches per year if grown in tropical or indoor environments

Propagation methods: propagate by seed sowing or with cuttings during the spring and summer months 

Landscape use: succulent garden, shade garden, container plant, porch accent

Special features: drought tolerant, heat tolerant, considered a tender perennial in zone 8 climates 

Light needs: 6 hours of sun per day 

Watering instructions: allow soil to completely dry between watering sessions 

Fertilizing instructions : optional dose of a succulent plant food once a year in the early spring 

Best time to plant: year round 

Best type of soil: sand, loam 

Companion plants: sedums, spider plant, snake plant, ferns, autumn sage 

Companion plants: yucca, agave, other sun loving cacti species 

Toxicity level: causes physical injury with contact to skin, but is considered non-toxic to humans and pets 

Invasive species: no