Mexican Fire Barrel - Pilosus – Desert Horizon Nursery

Mexican Fire Barrel – Pilosus

Ferocactus pilosus

Light
Water
Low water needs. Water deeply but infrequently during warm weather, allowing soil to dry completely between waterings. Keep nearly dry in winter; never leave roots in standing water.
Toxicity
Description
A ribbed, deep-green barrel cactus with striking red spines, becoming columnar with age. These details describe Ferocactus gracilis; ‘pilosus’ refers to the distinct species Ferocactus pilosus.
Deciduous / Evergreen
Growth Rate
Growth Habit
Flower Color
Non-toxic
Care Instructions

Light: Full sun to light shade; provide afternoon shade in Phoenix, especially for young plants. Acclimate gradually to direct sun and avoid intense reflected heat.

Water: Low water needs. Water deeply but infrequently during warm weather, allowing soil to dry completely between waterings. Keep nearly dry in winter; never leave roots in standing water.

Soil: Very well-drained, gritty or rocky soil. Use a mineral-rich cactus mix in containers and raised planting areas where native soil drains poorly.

Mature size: Typically 3–6 feet tall and 1–2 feet wide in cultivation; very old plants may approach 10 feet tall.

Bloom: Usually spring through summer on established, mature plants; flowering may be irregular in cultivation.

Evergreen / deciduous: Evergreen succulent.

Growth rate: Slow.