Imagine a cactus that look like it ’s been dipped in firing – its bright red spines blaze against the desert backdrop . Now picture those torrid spines border by delicate pink and blanched efflorescence blooming atop the cactus . voice awesome , proper ? Well , that ’s exactly what the Ferocactus haematacanthus is all about !
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About Ferocactus haematacanthus
This barrelful - shaped cactus , also jazz as the Texas barrel cactus or Mexican fruit cactus , is native to Mexico . Its single , cylinder - same stem can grow up to 3 foot tall and 2 foot wide . The stem has groove rib covered in whitened , chocolate-brown , and vibrant red spines that look like flame licking up . That ’s where it gets its fiery look !
During springtime , the tips of the barrel sprout pretty purple - pink and white flower . So not only is this cactus heart - get , but it ’s a stunner when in bloom too . No wonder it ’s such a dear desert flora !
If you ’re call back of adding this feisty firecracker to your cactus collection , here ’s what you need to know about caring for it :
Related Post:44 Types of Ferocactus Cacti [ With Pictures ]
How to Care For Ferocactus haematacanthus
Light
The Ferocactus haematacanthus loves hock up the Dominicus ’s rays , just like a desert native should . Bright , direct sunlight is a must for this cactus to thrive . If you go somewhere with harsh winter , you ’ll need tosupplement with a grow lightduring those darker months . get lights mimic born sunlight and allow the cactus to get the bright photograph it craves .
Watering
Do n’t be a flaming hose with this cactus ! Like most desert dwellers , the Ferocactus stores water efficiently in its drum stem . During the spring and summertime growing season , water it thoroughly but only once the soil is all teetotal a few inches down . About once every 2 - 3 week should do it .
In wintertime when the cactus is torpid , cut back on watering significantly – maybe just a deglutition every 6 - 8 week . Too much moisture can cause waste , which would really put out this firecracker ’s flaming .
Soil
take a well - enfeeble potting mix designed for cacti and succulents . Ormake your ownby mixing 2 parts potting land with 1 part vulgar moxie and 1 part perlite or pumice . The key is fast drainage to prevent swampy soil . Add some pebbles on top for that desert feel .
Fertilizer
Go easy on the plant life food for thislow - maintenanceguy . An program ofcactus fertilizerin former spring before the growing geological period is plenty . pick out a balanced fertilizer labeled for cacti and succulent .
Temperature and Humidity
ironical warmth is what the Ferocactus be intimate most . It get along from hot , desiccated neighborhood of Mexico after all ! stave off humid condition which promote rot and disease . During winter , protect it from suspend temperatures by travel it indoors .
Pests and Problems
The thick , spiny stem helps determost pest . But mealybug , wanderer pinch and scale can sometimes latch on . Keep an eye out and process with an insecticidal soap or neem oil colour if take . Watch for rot or discoloration from overwatering too .
Pruning
Not much pruning ask for this individual - stemmed boy . Just move out any dead , shriveled or discolored cactus flesh as involve .
Potting and Repotting
The Ferocactus haematacanthus has a slow growth rate , so it wo n’t take frequent repotting . hold off until it outgrows its current container , then go up just an column inch or two in deal sizing . Repot in springusing a fresh cactus / succulent potting commixture .
How to Propagate Ferocactus haematacanthus
Multiplying your fiery Ferocactus haematacanthus collection is easy once you have a go at it how ! Just be these simple stairs :
you’re able to also essay propagating from seeds , but cuttings be given to be faster and more reliable for home growers .
With its daze ruddy spines and coloured bloom of youth , the Ferocactus haematacanthus unquestionably survive up to its “ firecracker ” reputation . By following the soft care tips above , you could spark some serious desert heat and beauty in your own cactus garden !
