Ford's Barrel Cactus Ferocactus fordii
ABOUT
The plant known as Ferocactus fordii, commonly referred to as Ford's Barrel Cactus, boasts a striking spherical to cylindrical shape. Endowed with a green to glaucous, bluish-green hue, the body of this cactus is bedecked with pronounced ridges. Across its ribbed surface, numerous areoles dot the landscape, functioning as the plant's protective and growth centers. The plant is armed with an impressive array of spines which vary in color from yellow to red or a combination thereof, giving the cactus a fearsome appearance. These spines range from straight to slightly curved, and they are distributed around the areoles in a radial fashion, sometimes accompanied by longer central spines that can be more robust and pronounced. This barrel cactus blooms with flowers that sit atop the plant like a crown. These blossoms can vary in color generally featuring vibrant hues. Beneath the flowers, the cactus may also produce bulbous fruit, which offers an additional element of visual interest to an already captivating plant. The overall aesthetic of the Ford's Barrel Cactus is sculptural and robust, exuding an untamed beauty that comes from its spiny, ribbed body and striking form. It is a plant that commands attention and respect due to its formidable appearance.
About this plant
NamesSynonyms
Ford's Barrel Cactus, Northern Barrel Cactus, Biznaga De Agua.
Common names
Brittonrosea fordii, Ferocactus fordii subsp. borealis, Ferocactus fordii var. borealis.
ToxicityTo humans
Ferocactus fordii, commonly known as the Big Bend barrel cactus, is not generally recognized as toxic to humans. If ingested, though, it's possible for individuals to experience gastrointestinal discomfort due to the plant's fibrous and difficult-to-digest nature. The main risk from the Big Bend barrel cactus comes from its sharp spines, which can cause physical injury if handled improperly.
To pets
The Big Bend barrel cactus is also not commonly known to be toxic to pets. However, similar to humans, if pets were to ingest parts of the cactus, they might experience gastrointestinal upset. The primary concern is the physical danger posed by the sharp spines, which can cause injury to curious pets that might attempt to bite or touch the plant.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Evergreen
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Yellow
Height
2 feet (0.61 meters)
Spread
3 feet (0.91 meters)
Plant type
Cactus
Hardiness zones
9
Native area
Mexico
Benefits
General Benefits- Ornamental Appeal: Ferocactus fordii, commonly known as Ford's Barrel Cactus, adds aesthetic value to gardens and landscapes with its striking ribbed, cylindrical form and showy spines.
- Drought Tolerance: As a succulent, Ford's Barrel Cactus is highly tolerant of drought, making it an ideal choice for water-conserving xeriscapes and arid garden environments.
- Low Maintenance: This cactus requires minimal care, needing only occasional watering and no regular pruning, which is perfect for gardeners looking for low-maintenance plants.
- Wildlife Habitat: The Ford's Barrel Cactus can provide a micro-habitat for certain species of birds and insects, offering shelter and sometimes food in the form of flowers or seeds.
- Soil Erosion Control: Its root system can help stabilize soil, reducing erosion in rocky or sandy areas where other plants might struggle to grow.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Acoustic Insulation: The dried, hollowed-out bodies of Ferocactus fordii can be used as a natural sound insulator due to their structure.
- Artistic Medium: Artists may use segments of Ferocactus fordii as a natural canvas or incorporate them into sculptures.
- Physical Barriers: Planted in groups, these cacti may serve as a low-maintenance, natural fencing or boundary marker due to their formidable spines.
- Photo Shoots: Ferocactus fordii and its vivid blooms can provide a picturesque, desert-themed backdrop for photography.
- Soil Erosion Control: They can help prevent soil erosion in arid landscapes due to their extensive root systems.
- Navigation Marker: In their native habitat, these cacti can serve as natural landmarks helping in desert navigation.
- Microclimate Regulator: By providing shade and releasing water vapor, they can create a more hospitable microclimate for other plants.
- Humidity Indicator: The plumpness of Ferocactus fordii may serve as a natural indicator of ambient humidity in their environment.
- Traditional Instruments: Dried parts of the cactus might be used to create rustic musical instruments, particularly percussion instruments.
- Educational Tool: The cactus can be used in schools or nature programs to teach about desert plant adaptations and survival strategies.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Barrel Cactus is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Barrel Cactus is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Resilience: Ferocactus fordii, commonly known as Fishhook Barrel Cactus, has adapted to thrive in harsh desert environments, symbolizing the ability to endure challenging conditions and persevere.
- Self-Reliance: This cactus is known for its ability to store water, signifying self-sufficiency and independence.
- Protection: The sharp spines of the Fishhook Barrel Cactus serve as a defense mechanism, representing the need for setting boundaries and safeguarding oneself.
WaterThe Barrel Cactus should be watered sparingly – during the growing season, which is spring and summer, water about once every two weeks, allowing the soil to dry out completely between waterings. In the winter, reduce watering to once a month or less, depending on the humidity of your environment. Typically, you should provide about 8-16 ounces of water for smaller plants and up to 2-3 gallons for larger mature specimens every time you water. Overwatering can lead to root rot, so it's crucial to ensure proper drainage and never let the cactus sit in waterlogged soil.
LightThe Barrel Cactus thrives best in full sunlight, so place it in a spot where it can enjoy direct sun for most of the day. An ideal location is a south-facing window if the cactus is kept indoors or an unobstructed area if planted outdoors. It can tolerate some light shade but may not grow as vigorously or bloom as profusely without ample sunshine.
TemperatureThe Barrel Cactus prefers hot temperatures and can endure temperatures up to 120°F without problems. It's adapted to desert climates, so it can survive a wide range of temperatures, but it should not be exposed to temperatures below freezing, which means it can handle a minimum of around 32°F. For optimal growth, maintain a temperature range between 70°F and 100°F.
PruningPruning of the Barrel Cactus is generally not required as it maintains its shape naturally. However, if you need to remove any damaged or diseased spines, do so with care using tongs or protective gloves. The best time for any necessary pruning is in the spring, just before the growing season begins.
CleaningAs needed
SoilBiznaga giant cactus requires a well-draining cactus mix with pumice or perlite. The ideal soil pH is slightly acidic to neutral, between 6.0 to 7.5.
RepottingBiznaga giant cactus should be repotted once every 2-3 years or when it outgrows its pot.
Humidity & MistingBiznaga giant cactus does best in dry conditions and low humidity levels typical of arid environments.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Provide bright light, minimal water, and dry air for Biznaga giant.
Outdoor
Biznaga giant thrives in full sun with dry soil and sparse watering.
Hardiness zone
9-11 USDA
Life cycleFerocactus fordii, commonly known as Ford's Barrel Cactus, starts its life as a small seed which sprouts in suitable arid conditions, often in the shelter of a nurse plant. Upon germination, the seedling slowly grows, developing its characteristic spiny stem which is capable of storing water. As a slow-growing cactus, it may take several years to reach maturity, at which point it develops a more pronounced ribbed structure and begins to produce flowers, often triggered by seasonal rains. After pollination, often by birds, insects, or small mammals, the flowers produce fruit containing seeds, which are then dispersed by wildlife. The mature barrel cactus may continue to grow in size, flower, and produce seeds annually for decades. Eventually, the plant reaches senescence, where growth slows, and it ultimately dies, returning nutrients to the soil and sometimes providing habitat for other organisms.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring to early summer
Ferocactus fordii, commonly known as Ford's Barrel Cactus, is often propagated by seeds, as it is the most popular method. The best time to sow the seeds is in the spring or summer when the temperatures are warm, which is ideal for germination. To propagate by seeds, one should first prepare a well-draining cactus soil mix. The seeds can then be scattered lightly on the surface of the soil and covered with a thin layer of sand or fine grit. The soil should be kept consistently moist but not waterlogged, and the pot should be kept in a warm place with plenty of indirect sunlight. Seedlings typically emerge within two to six weeks, at which point they can be gradually acclimated to brighter light. As the seedlings grow, they can be potted on into larger containers until they are ready to go into their final positions.
