Golden Barrel Cactus
echinocactus grusonii
Also known as: ["Mother of Gold","Golden Ball Cactus"]
Overview
A large, globular cactus native to central Mexico, known for its golden-yellow spines and ribbed structure.
Benefits & Perks
["drought tolerant","low maintenance","aesthetic foliage","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Caryophyllales |
| Family: | Cactaceae |
| Genus: | Echinocactus |
| Botanical Name: | Echinocactus grusonii |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Succulents & Cacti
- Suitable Location: indoor pot in bright, sunny location or outdoor garden in arid, sunny area
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–40°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"9–11"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent root rot.
- Soil Type: Well-draining cactus or succulent mix with added perlite or coarse sand.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: very low
- Toughness Level: high
- Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically annually or when damage is observed.
- Pruning Intensity: Light; only remove damaged or dead parts.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun (6–8 hours of direct sunlight daily); adjust to partial shade in intense summer heat to prevent sunburn.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to intense sunlight; provide shade during peak summer heat; ensure proper ventilation to prevent overheating.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderateeasy
Sunlight
full sun
Rotate plant weekly for even growth; avoid sudden light changes; use sheer curtains in extreme heat.
Watering
every 7–10 days during growing season, every 3–4 weeks in winter
Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure soil dries out between waterings; avoid overhead watering to prevent rot.
Soil
well-draining, sandy cactus mix
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Ensure pots have drainage holes; avoid overwatering; use a soil mix with at least 50% inorganic components.
Temperature
Warm temperatures (70–85°F / 21–29°C) during active growth; tolerate mild frost (down to 20°F / -6°C) if dry; prefer cool, dry conditions in winter dormancy.
Protect from frost if wet; avoid sudden temperature swings; maintain dry conditions in winter.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during growing season, none in winter
Fertilize only when actively growing; water before applying fertilizer to prevent root burn; stop fertilizing in winter.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or offsets (pups); offsets are the most reliable method for home growers.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Select a healthy offset or cutting.
- Let the cut end callous for a few days.
- Plant in well-draining medium.
- Water sparingly until roots form.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm (70–80°F / 21–27°C), bright indirect light, high humidity (e.g., using a propagation dome), and good air circulation.
Medium
Well-draining mix of cactus soil and perlite or sand.
Hormone
Optional, but rooting hormone can speed up the process.
Timeline
Offsets may root in 2–4 weeks; cuttings may take 4–8 weeks to root and several months to establish.
Tools Needed
Clean knife or scissors, rooting hormone (optional), well-draining medium, propagation tray or pot, humidity dome.
Quick Tips
Allow cuttings to callous before planting; use sterile tools to prevent infection; maintain consistent humidity for faster rooting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Carefully snip off damaged sections with clean, sharp tools; avoid cutting healthy tissue.
Pruning Plan
Minimal pruning; primarily remove dead or damaged spines/pads to maintain health and appearance.
Tools
Sharp, clean pruning shears or scissors, gloves.
Checklist
Wear gloves; sterilize tools; remove only dead/damaged parts; clean up debris to prevent pests.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, when the plant is entering its active growth phase.
Pot Size
One size larger pot (e.g., 2–3 inches wider in diameter).
Method
Remove the plant carefully, trim any dead roots, place in a slightly larger pot with fresh cactus soil, and water lightly after repotting.
Suggestions
Repot every 3–4 years or when the plant outgrows its container; necessary to refresh soil and provide space for growth.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot size; use well-draining soil; handle roots gently; water sparingly after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water deeply; ensure drainage; adjust frequency by season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the base, ensuring even saturation of the root zone; allow excess water to drain freely; water in the morning to minimize evaporation and fungal risk.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply during spring and summer, allowing soil to dry completely between waterings; reduce or stop watering in fall and winter to mimic dormancy.
Soil Improvement
Add coarse sand, perlite, or pumice to commercial potting soil to enhance drainage; avoid heavy, water-retentive soils.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Sunburn (yellow/brown patches); etiolation (elongated growth) in low light; root rot in cold, wet soil.
Cold Stress
Slows growth; can cause root damage if soil remains wet; may develop fungal infections in cold, damp conditions.
Solution: Ensure excellent drainage; move to a warmer location if temperatures drop below 20°F (-6°C); avoid watering in cold weather.
Hot Stress
Can lead to sunburn, dehydration, and wilting if not provided adequate water and shade during extreme heat.
Solution: Provide partial shade during peak heat; increase watering frequency; ensure good air circulation.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use cactus-specific fertilizer; dilute properly; apply during growing season only; water before and after fertilizing.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, low-nitrogen cactus fertilizer diluted to half strength; fertilize monthly during spring and summer; avoid fertilizing in fall and winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicEchinocactus grusonii is not toxic to cats. While the plant itself does not pose a chemical toxicity risk, the spines can cause physical harm if ingested or if they puncture the skin.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Non-toxicThe Golden Barrel Cactus is not considered toxic to dogs. Ingestion of the plant material is unlikely to cause significant poisoning, though physical injury from spines may occur.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Non-toxicEchinocactus grusonii, commonly known as the Golden Barrel Cactus, is generally non-toxic to humans. However, its sharp spines can cause physical injury upon contact, leading to localized pain and irritation.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if touched
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How often should I water my Golden Barrel Cactus?
A: Water sparingly, only when the soil is completely dry, typically every 2-4 weeks depending on climate.
Q: Can the Golden Barrel Cactus be grown indoors?
A: Yes, but it requires bright, direct sunlight and excellent drainage to thrive indoors.
Q: Is the Golden Barrel Cactus toxic to pets?
A: No, it is non-toxic to dogs and cats, though spines can cause physical injury.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Cactaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | full sun |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during growi |
Get Expert Care Tips
Download the Plantious app for personalized care reminders and plant identification!
Google Play App Store
