Fire Barrel Cactus

The Fire Barrel cactus is a small, vividly colored barrel-type cactus known for its striking appearance. Here’s a detailed description:

• While “Fire Barrel cactus” isn’t a formal botanical name, it often refers to a cultivar or variety of Ferocactus or Echinocactus bred for intense red, orange, or crimson tones, especially on its spines.
• Common related species: Ferocactus cylindraceus (California barrel cactus), Ferocactus wislizeni (fishhook barrel cactus).

Appearance

• Shape: Rounded to slightly elongated barrel form, usually 20–60 cm tall in cultivation, but wild species can grow taller over decades.
• Ribs: Prominent vertical ribs (8–28 depending on species) with areoles spaced along them.
• Spines: The “fire” comes from the vibrant spines—bright orange, red, or fiery copper—often fading to yellow or tan as they age.
• Flowers: Usually appear in a ring around the crown, trumpet-shaped, colors ranging from yellow to orange-red. Blooming season is late spring to summer

Habitat & Growth

• Native relatives are found in deserts of the American Southwest and northern Mexico.
• Prefers full sun, very well-draining soil, and infrequent watering.
• Slow-growing but long-lived, capable of surviving decades.

Special Notes

• The fiery spines are not just decorative—they protect against herbivores and help shade the cactus body from intense desert sun.