Ferocactus glaucescens (Blue Barrel Cactus)

Ferocactus glaucescens (Blue Barrel Cactus) is a globose to cylindrical bluish-green cactus with 11-15 prominent ribs adorned with areoles sprouting long, pale yellow spines, up to 1.5 in. (4 cm). Bright lemon yellow, funnel-shaped flowers, 2 in. wide (5 cm) are produced in late spring to summer. They last a very long time and form a discreet ring at the top of the plant. They are followed by white fruits with the remnants of the flowers attached. Often solitary, this cylindrical cactus is sometimes basally branched, forming an attractive mound. Terrific at adding texture, color and shape to the landscape, this eye-catching and majestic plant looks spectacular in any desert garden settings. More humidity tolerant than most barrel cacti.

• Recipient of the prestigious Award of Garden Merit of the Royal Horticultural Society.
• Slowly grows up to 2 ft. tall and wide (60 cm).
• Easily grown in well-drained soils in full sun or light shade if the site is extremely hot or bright. Water moderately when in growth. Make sure you let the soil dry out between waterings. No water should ever be allowed to stand around the roots. Do not wet the body of this plant while in sunlight to avoid sun burning, fungal infections or death. Keep the plant dry in winter. Feed with a balanced liquid feed. Drought tolerant.
• Great for desert gardens, rock gardens, succulent gardens or Mediterranean gardens. Great in decorative containers too.
• Deer resistant. The flowers produce nectar and are attractive to birds and bees
• Propagate by seed in early spring.
• Virtually disease free. Keep an eye out for mealybug.
• Native to Mexico