Ferocactus gracilis ssp. coloratus

Slow-growing fire barrel cactus is good in pots, sharp-drained gravelly garden soils. Broad, showy, reddish spines. Reddish funnel-shaped flowers late spring to summer. Mature shape a short column.
height 1–3ft
width 4–12in
tolerates Coast, Drought, Deer , Heat, Pots, Rooftops, Neglect, Salt, Wind
water
needs		 Low
water
info		 While this cactus naturally grows just across California’s southern boarder, it receives primarily summer rains, not winter. As such it is more forgiving of overwatering during summer, but wants to be kept extra dry during our winter months.

Remember that if kept in a small pot your plant will want more frequent watering.
hardy
to		 28F
exposure Part Shade – Full Sun
indoor
outdoor		 In or Out
drainage In Ground: Cactus Mix, In Pots: Cactus Mix, Tolerates Sandy Soil
fertilizing All Purpose, Low Needs
origin Baja California Norte
california
native		 No
sunset
zones		 13, 16–24

Sunset Zones Map

SUNSET ZONES MAP

Growing Notes

While this cactus is slow growing, it is also a forgiving and easy grower.
Aggressive looking recurved red spines are variable on this globose cactus; on some, the armature is thick, extreme, and fantastical.
Blooms in late spring into early summer.