Herrera's Barrel Cactus
ferocactus herrerae
Also known as: ["Herrera's Ferocactus"]
Overview
A large, barrel-shaped cactus with prominent ribs and spines, native to arid regions of Mexico.
Benefits & Perks
["drought tolerant","rare/collector’s item","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Caryophyllales |
| Family: | Cactaceae |
| Genus: | Ferocactus |
| Botanical Name: | Ferocactus herrerae |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Succulents & Cacti
- Suitable Location: indoor pot in bright, sunny location or outdoor garden in arid, well-drained 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: Cactus or succulent mix with added coarse sand or perlite for drainage.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: very low
- Toughness Level: high
- Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically every 2-3 years or when damage is observed.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate; avoid removing more than 10-15% of the plant at once.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun exposure (6-8 hours/day); adjust to partial shade in extreme summer heat to prevent scorching.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to intense sunlight; provide shade during peak midday heat in summer; ensure outdoor placement receives unfiltered sunlight.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
full sun
Rotate plant weekly for even growth; avoid sudden light changes; use sheer curtains in intense summer.
Watering
every 7–10 days during growing season, every 3–4 weeks in winter
Water thoroughly but infrequently; avoid waterlogging; reduce watering in winter dormancy.
Soil
fast-draining cactus mix with coarse sand or perlite
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0-7.0).
Ensure pots have drainage holes; avoid waterlogged soil; use gritty amendments.
Temperature
Warm temperatures (70-90°F / 21-32°C) during growing season; tolerate mild frost (down to 20°F / -6°C) but thrive in heat.
Avoid sudden temperature shifts; protect from frost; ensure good ventilation in hot climates.
Fertilizing
every 2–3 months during growing season with balanced cactus fertilizer
Fertilize only when actively growing; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; stop fertilizing before winter dormancy.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings (rarely offsets); seeds are more common for this species.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Select healthy stem.
- Let cut end callous for 1-2 days.
- Plant in dry medium.
- Water lightly after roots form.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when temperatures are warm and the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm (75-85°F / 24-29°C), high humidity (50-70%), bright indirect light, and good airflow.
Medium
Well-draining mix of cactus soil and coarse sand or perlite.
Hormone
Optional, but recommended for faster rooting.
Timeline
Seeds: 2-6 months to germinate; cuttings: 4-8 weeks to root, 6-12 months to establish.
Tools Needed
Sharp knife, rooting hormone (optional), pots, well-draining soil mix.
Quick Tips
Use sterile tools; avoid overwatering cuttings; provide bottom heat for faster rooting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Carefully snip or scrape off damaged spines; cut stems close to the main body if necessary.
Pruning Plan
Minimal pruning; remove dead or damaged spines/stems to maintain shape and health.
Tools
Sterile craft knife, small pruning shears, gloves.
Checklist
Wear gloves; sterilize tools; remove only damaged parts; avoid excessive cutting.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before the active growing season begins.
Pot Size
One size larger pot (e.g., +2-3 cm in diameter); ensure bottom drainage.
Method
Gently remove plant; trim any dead roots; place in a slightly larger pot with fresh, well-draining soil; avoid watering for a week.
Suggestions
Repot only when root-bound or soil is depleted; typically every 3-5 years.
Checklist
Use well-draining soil; ensure pot has drainage holes; handle carefully to avoid spine injury; wait to water.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil dryness; water deeply; ensure drainage; reduce winter watering.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the soil 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 the growing season (spring-summer) every 7-14 days, reducing frequency to monthly or less in fall-winter; allow soil to dry completely between waterings.
Soil Improvement
Add coarse sand, perlite, or pumice to commercial potting mix; avoid heavy organic matter.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Chlorosis or necrosis from excessive heat; etiolation or slow growth from insufficient light/heat; root rot from cold, wet soil.
Cold Stress
Low temperatures (below 50°F / 10°C) slow growth and increase susceptibility to rot, especially if soil remains moist.
Solution: Move to a warmer location; ensure soil is dry; provide frost protection if temperatures drop below freezing.
Hot Stress
Excessive heat (above 100°F / 38°C) can cause sunburn, dehydration, and wilting if watered improperly.
Solution: Provide partial shade during peak heat; increase airflow; water early morning or late evening to reduce evaporation.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use diluted fertilizer; apply during growing season; avoid winter feeding.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, low-nitrogen cactus fertilizer diluted to half strength; apply monthly during growing season (spring-summer); avoid fertilizing in fall-winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
ToxicCats are at risk of poisoning from Ferocactus herrerae, especially if they chew or ingest the spines or flesh. The spines can cause physical trauma, while the plant's toxic compounds may lead to systemic effects.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
ToxicDogs are susceptible to toxicity from Ferocactus herrerae, particularly if they ingest the spines or flesh. The spines can cause mechanical injury to the mouth, throat, and digestive tract, while the flesh may induce gastrointestinal upset.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
ToxicThe flesh and spines of Ferocactus herrerae contain toxic compounds that can cause gastrointestinal distress and skin irritation upon contact. The spines are particularly hazardous due to their sharp nature and potential to embed in skin, leading to localized inflammation and pain.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How often should I water Ferocactus herrerae?
A: Water sparingly, only when the soil is completely dry, typically every 2-4 weeks depending on climate and season.
Q: Does this cactus need full sun?
A: Yes, it thrives in full sun and requires at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily.
Q: Can Ferocactus herrerae be grown indoors?
A: It can be grown indoors but requires a very bright location with direct sunlight and excellent drainage.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Cactaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | full sun |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during growi |
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