Ferocactus hamatacanthus
TAXONOMY
FamilyCactaceae
GenusFerocactus
Zone9
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Ferocactus hamatacanthus, commonly known as the Texas Barrel Cactus or Turk's Head Cactus, is a species of barrel cactus native to the southwestern United States and northern Mexico. It thrives in desert or dry shrubland climates and is known for its large, hooked central spines. This succulent subshrub can grow up to 60 cm in height and 30 cm in diameter. It has a dormancy period during the cooler months.
ALSO KNOWN AS
Brittonia davisii
Echinocactus deflexispinus
Echinocactus flexispinus
Echinocactus gerardii
Echinocactus hamatacanthus
Echinocactus hamatacanthus var. brevispinus
Echinocactus hamatacanthus var. longihamatus
Echinocactus insignis
Echinocactus longihamatus
Echinocactus longihamatus f. brevispinus
Echinocactus longihamatus var. bicolor
Echinocactus longihamatus var. brevispinus
Echinocactus longihamatus var. crassispinus
Echinocactus longihamatus var. deflexispinus
Echinocactus longihamatus var. insignis
Echinocactus setispinus var. longihamatus
Echinocactus texensis var. treculianus
Echinocactus uncinatus
Ferocactus hamatacanthus var. crassispinus
Hamatocactus hamatacanthus
Hamatocactus hamatacanthus var. davisii
Mexican fire barrel
OVERVIEW
VPDCalculate
WaterVery Dry
SoilSandy
LightDirect Bright (8 Hours)
Temperature25° C
Humidity20%
Dormancy3 Months
pH6.5
Pressure1,013 mbar
DETAILS
Care Instructions
Ferocactus hamatacanthus requires bright, direct sunlight for optimal growth. It thrives in warm temperatures and low humidity, making it well-suited for desert-like conditions. Water sparingly, allowing the soil to dry out completely between waterings. This cactus is relatively low-maintenance and can be grown both indoors and outdoors.Soil
This cactus prefers well-draining sandy soil. A cactus or succulent mix is ideal, as it provides the necessary drainage to prevent root rot. Ensure the soil dries out completely between waterings to mimic its natural desert habitat.Fertilizer
Fertilize Ferocactus hamatacanthus with a balanced cactus fertilizer, such as a 5-10-10 formula, during the growing season. Apply the fertilizer sparingly, about once a month, to provide the necessary nutrients without overfeeding.Repotting
Repot the cactus every 2-3 years or when it outgrows its current pot. Choose a slightly larger pot with good drainage. Handle the cactus carefully to avoid damaging the spines, and use fresh cactus soil mix when repotting.Propagation
Propagate Ferocactus hamatacanthus through seeds or offsets. Seeds can be sown in a well-draining soil mix and kept in a warm, bright location. Offsets can be carefully removed from the parent plant and planted in their own pots.Pruning
Pruning is generally not required for this cactus. However, you can remove any dead or damaged spines to maintain its appearance. Use clean, sharp tools to avoid introducing infections.Toxicity
Ferocactus hamatacanthus is not toxic to pets or humans. However, its sharp spines can cause physical injury, so handle with care and keep out of reach of children and pets.Additional
This cactus is well-suited for xeriscaping and can be a striking addition to a desert-themed garden. It is drought-tolerant and can survive extended periods without water, making it an excellent choice for low-maintenance gardening.REVOLUTIONIZE YOUR PLANT CARE
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