The Golden Barrel Cactus. The scientific name is Echinocactus grusonii – It needs full sun anything less and it will not bloom or do well. It can grow about 3 maybe 4 ft. tall and wide, sometimes taller and wider, make sure it gets ample room to grow. The spines or needles will get about 4-5 long and curved at the end and they are vicious if someone gets too close to this desert plant.
Where to place this plant
Plant them where there is full sun. It loves to be in places where there is lots of heat. The reflected sun is good, around rocks and near south-facing walls is the best place to plant the cactus barrel. It is a good plant for a xeriscaping landscape. It needs more than 5 hrs. of full sun anything less and it will have a hard time looking good.
It will not tolerate temperatures below 20° Fahrenheit for more than 3-4 days in a row. It is best to keep your eye on the weather during the winter seasons. Cover this cactus plant if you know these temperatures will be consistent for more than 3 days or so. Here is more information on the Golden Barrel Cactus.
Information on the Golden Barrel Cactus
| Common Name | Scientific Name | USDA Zone | Water Usage | Flower |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| The Golden Barrel Cactus | Echinocactus grusonii | 9 through 11 | Low | Yellow Flower/Spring |
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