Ferocactus

Ferocactus is a genus of barrel-shaped cacti in the family Cactaceae, commonly known as barrel cacti. The genus comprises about 30 species native to the Americas, especially the deserts of the southwestern United States and northern to central Mexico, with some species extending into Central America. They inhabit deserts, rocky slopes, and arid scrub, where they are well adapted to extreme drought.

Ferocactus plants are typically cylindrical to depressed globose, with pronounced ribs and stout central spines that can be hooked. Spines often come in radiating bundles and may be colorful, yellow to brown or reddish. Flowers occur near the apex, are funnel-shaped and often bright yellow, orange, or red, opening during the day. Fruits are small and fleshy and may be edible.

They use CAM photosynthesis, tolerate drought, and are slow-growing. In cultivation, Ferocactus are valued as ornamentals for their form and spines, requiring bright light, well-draining soil, and careful watering to prevent rot and pests. Some species tolerate cooler nights but are generally not frost-hardy outside cultivation.

Notable species include Ferocactus cylindraceus (California barrel cactus) and Ferocactus wislizeni (fishhook barrel cactus), among others that occur in Mexico and the southwestern United States.

Conservation and uses: While many species are common in native landscapes and cultivation, over-collection and habitat loss threaten some rarer taxa. Fruits have been used locally, and spines have traditional uses in crafts.