Ferocactus chrysacanthus
Compass Barrel Cactus
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Compass Barrel Cactus (Ferocactus chrysacanthus) - Description
The bright yellow spines of this barrel cactus really make it shine in its native habitat. Great for coastal regions that don't get too cold at night. This native to Baja California and its surrounding Islands this cactus has great potential as a landscape specimen. Almost columnar in shape, but still small in stature, it is great for use in smaller spaces.
Compass Barrel Cactus (Ferocactus chrysacanthus) - Blooming
Barrel cacti bloom later than most other cacti.
Compass Barrel Cactus (Ferocactus chrysacanthus) - Growth
They are desert dwellers and can cope with some frost and intense heat. In cultivation they require full sun, and little water but good drainage. Does well in low humidity. Miniature varieties do well in containers if put in a south window. Full sun leads to better spination.
Compass Barrel Cactus (Ferocactus chrysacanthus) - Planting
Sow seeds in spring at 50-68°F (10-20°C).
Compass Barrel Cactus (Ferocactus chrysacanthus) - Pest
Mealybugs. Ferocactus are also susceptible to cactus virus X and fungal rots.
Compass Barrel Cactus (Ferocactus chrysacanthus) - Interesting facts
Tipped over barrel cacti are not due to being top-heavy with water, but from their habit of growing towards the sun. Getting water from a wild Ferocactus is a lot more difficult than legends suggest, and usually illegal as wild plants are protected by state laws.
Compass Barrel Cactus (Ferocactus chrysacanthus) - Soil and irrigation
A desert native, this cactus requires no irrigation. Try to keep dry in winter, or at least protect from heavy rains (especially the root zone). Ferocactus does best in poor soil that is fast-draining. In containers, use a cactus soil mix with perlite.
