Ferocactus wislizenii
Also called the Compass Barrel, Fishhook Barrel or Candy Barrel, this cactus often leans towards the southwest because the shaded side grows faster than the sun facing side.
Flowers: J F M A M J J A S O N D
Status: Native
Origin: Upland Mojave and Sonoran Deserts at elevations between 1,000 and 4,000 feet on slopes with porous rocky soils
Family: Cactaceae
Size: 4′ – 6′ high
Sun: Full
Watering: None once established
Growth Rate: Moderate
Soil: Requires a well drained soil
Temperature: Tolerant
Pruning:
Disease and Pests: Root rot in poorly drained soils
Uses: Fruit and flesh eaten by wildlife, nectar plant, special value to Cactus bees
Notes: The water in the flesh of the barrel cactus contains oxalic acid and is likely to cause diarrhea if ingested on an empty stomach
Resources
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