Ferocactus pilosus
Ferocactus pilosus
Mexican fire barrel
◆
Taxonomy
Family Cactaceae · Genus Ferocactus
Common Names
Mexican fire barrelMexican lime cactusBarrel cactus
Context
nativeRegion
Chihuahuan Desert region of northern Mexico.
usdaZones
9b–11
companionPlants
Agave spp., Echinocactus spp., Opuntia spp., Yucca spp.
culturalUses
Mainly ornamental; historically, spines and fruits sometimes used by local communities.
Care
Care Requirements
LightFull sun; requires at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily.
WateringLow; water sparingly, letting soil dry completely between watering. Increase frequency during summer, reduce in winter.
SoilWell-draining cactus or succulent mix with added sand or pumice.
FertilizerFeed with diluted cactus fertilizer once a month during active growth (spring-summer).
HumidityPrefers low humidity; avoid excessive moisture.
TemperatureWarm temperatures; optimal range 21–32°C (70–90°F). Protect from frost (minimum 5°C/41°F).
Growth & Life Cycle
HabitSolitary or slowly clumping; forms large, barrel-shaped stems.
Mature SizeUp to 2 meters (6.5 feet) tall and 50–60 cm (20–24 in) wide.
Growth RateSlow-growing.
BloomingProduces red to yellow flowers at the crown, typically in late spring to summer.
DormancyDormant in winter; minimal water and no fertilizer needed.
Propagation
MethodsSeed, Offsets (rare, as this species is mostly solitary)
DifficultyModerate (seeds germinate slowly; offsets uncommon).
Best SeasonSpring to early summer.
Maintenance & Notes
PruningNot required; remove dead or damaged tissue if necessary.
RepottingEvery 3–4 years or when outgrowing its pot. Handle with care due to spines.
Pests & DiseasesSusceptible to root rot if overwatered; watch for scale and mealybugs.
ToxicityNot known to be toxic, but sharp spines can cause injury.
Recent Public Plants
No public plants yet.