Ferocactus wislizenii

Fish-hook Barrel

Accent

This evergreen cactus is usually single-stemmed, but occasionally branches from the base (see below). The 20 to 30 ribs have white to red to gray spines. Central spines are three to four inches long with a hook on the end.

Temperature

Hardy to 10F.

Water requirements

None. Among the most drought tolerant of plants.

Sun

Full sun to part shade.

Soil

Tolerant with good drainage.

Maintenance

None once established.

Disadvantages

Spines. Catches wind-blown debris that is hard to remove. Taller specimens can become top heavy during rains and tip over.

Bloom

Orange flowers in summer

Fruit or Seeds

Yellow fruit.

Uses

Accent or specimen in succulent compositions. Both flowers and fruit have ornamental value.

Origin

Native of the Sonoran Desert. Member of the Cactaceae family.

Themes

Native, Desert Grassland, Desert, Desert Transitional, Edible.

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