Ferocactus wislizeni

Fishhook barrel cactus

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Taxonomy

Common Names

Fishhook barrel cactusArizona barrel cactusCandy barrel cactusCompass barrel

Context

nativeRegion

Sonoran and Chihuahuan Deserts of the southwestern United States and northern Mexico.

usdaZones

9-11

companionPlants

Agave, Opuntia, Yucca, Echinocereus

culturalUses

Edible fruit consumed by indigenous peoples; used ornamentally in xeriscaping and rock gardens.

Care

LightFull sun; needs at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily.

WateringWater sparingly; allow soil to dry completely between waterings. Reduce water in winter.

SoilWell-draining cactus or succulent mix, gritty and sandy soils preferred.

FertilizerDilute low-nitrogen cactus fertilizer once a month during the growing season (spring-summer).

HumidityPrefers low humidity, good air circulation.

TemperatureTolerates high heat; minimum around 50°F (10°C), not frost-tolerant.

HabitSolitary or slowly clumping barrel cactus with prominent ribs and spines.

Mature SizeUp to 3 ft (1 m) tall and 2 ft (60 cm) wide.

Growth RateSlow-growing.

BloomingProduces large, bright yellow to orange-red flowers in summer; followed by edible fruits.

DormancyDormant in winter, with minimal growth.

MethodsSeed, Offsets (rarely)

DifficultyModerate (seed propagation can be slow)

Best SeasonSpring to early summer for sowing seeds.

PruningNo regular pruning required; remove dead flowers or damaged tissue.

RepottingEvery 2-3 years, or when potbound; wear gloves to avoid spines.

Pests & DiseasesGenerally pest-resistant; watch for mealybugs, root rot in poorly-drained soil.

ToxicityNon-toxic to humans and pets.

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