Blood-red Barrel Cactus
ferocactus haematacanthus
Also known as: ["Red-spined Barrel Cactus","Blood-spined Barrel Cactus"]
Overview
A striking barrel cactus native to Mexico, characterized by its red spines and globular shape.
Benefits & Perks
["drought tolerant","low maintenance","rare/collector’s item","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Caryophyllales |
| Family: | Cactaceae |
| Genus: | Ferocactus |
| Botanical Name: | Ferocactus haematacanthus |
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 waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining cactus 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 to moderate; avoid heavy pruning unless necessary for health.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun (6–8 hours 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 midday hours in summer; ensure proper ventilation to prevent heat buildup.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
full sun
Rotate plant weekly for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter harsh sunlight; avoid sudden light changes.
Watering
every 7–10 days during growing season, every 3–4 weeks in winter
Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure excellent drainage; avoid waterlogged soil.
Soil
fast-draining cactus mix with coarse sand or perlite
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Use unglazed pots for better aeration; avoid peat-heavy mixes; ensure soil dries between waterings.
Temperature
Warm temperatures (70–90°F / 21–32°C) during active growth; tolerate mild frost (down to 20°F / -6°C) but prefer above 50°F (10°C) in winter.
Monitor temperature fluctuations; use a thermometer; adjust care based on seasonal changes; protect from drafts.
Fertilizing
every 2–3 months during growing season with balanced cactus fertilizer
Fertilize after watering to prevent root burn; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; stop fertilizing in fall.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings (offsets or pups); occasionally from seed.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Select a healthy offset.
- Let cut end dry for a few days.
- Plant in well-draining medium.
- Water sparingly until roots develop.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm (70–80°F / 21–27°C), humid (50–60%), bright indirect light with protection from direct sun.
Medium
Cactus mix or perlite/sand mixture for excellent drainage.
Hormone
Optional, but rooting hormone can speed up the process.
Timeline
Roots may form in 4–8 weeks; establishment can take several months.
Tools Needed
Clean knife or shears, rooting hormone (optional), small pots, well-draining medium.
Quick Tips
Allow cuttings to callous before planting; use sterile tools to prevent disease; maintain consistent moisture.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Carefully remove spines or small sections with clean, sharp tools; avoid cutting into healthy tissue.
Pruning Plan
Minimal pruning; remove dead or damaged spines/stems to maintain health and appearance.
Tools
Pruning shears, gloves, small brush for cleaning spines.
Checklist
Wear gloves; sterilize tools; remove only dead/damaged parts; clean up spines carefully.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before active growth begins.
Pot Size
One size larger pot (e.g., +2–3 cm in diameter); ensure good drainage holes.
Method
Carefully remove plant; trim any dead roots; place in a slightly larger pot with fresh cactus mix; water lightly after repotting.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; necessary to refresh soil and provide space for growth.
Checklist
Check root health; use fresh soil; ensure proper drainage; avoid overwatering post-repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil dryness; water deeply; ensure drainage; adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the root zone, ensuring even saturation; allow excess water to drain freely; water early in the day to minimize evaporation and fungal risk.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply during active growing season (spring-summer), allowing soil to dry completely between waterings; reduce or cease watering in winter dormancy.
Soil Improvement
Add coarse sand, perlite, or pumice to standard potting soil; ensure large drainage holes in pots.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Chlorosis or purpling of lower leaves; stunted growth; bud drop; soft or mushy stems (cold stress); wilting despite adequate water (heat stress).
Cold Stress
Low temperatures slow metabolism, causing root damage and susceptibility to rot; prolonged cold can lead to tissue death.
Solution: Move to a warmer location; insulate roots with mulch; avoid overwatering; use a heat mat if necessary.
Hot Stress
Excessive heat can cause dehydration, sunburn, and scorching of tissues; may lead to etiolation if not enough water is available.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity with misting; ensure adequate water supply; use reflective mulch to reduce ground heat.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use correct dilution; fertilize during active growth; avoid winter feeding; flush soil periodically.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, low-nitrogen cactus fertilizer diluted to half strength; apply monthly during growing season (spring-summer); avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
ToxicFerocactus haematacanthus is toxic to cats if ingested, causing gastrointestinal and potential systemic effects. The spines can also cause physical injury.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
ToxicIngestion of Ferocactus haematacanthus can lead to gastrointestinal upset and potential systemic toxicity in dogs. The spines pose a physical hazard if ingested.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
ToxicFerocactus haematacanthus contains toxic compounds that can cause gastrointestinal distress and other systemic effects upon ingestion. The spines can also cause physical injury if handled improperly.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How much sunlight does Ferocactus haematacanthus need?
A: It thrives in full sun, requiring at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily.
Q: Is Ferocactus haematacanthus toxic to pets?
A: No, it is non-toxic to dogs and cats.
Q: How often should I water this cactus?
A: Water sparingly, allowing the soil to dry completely between waterings, especially during winter.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Cactaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | full sun |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during growi |
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