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Fishhook Barrel Cactus

Ferocactus Wislizeni

In stock

5 gallon

Plant Care

Native region:

Sonoran Desert

Water needs:

Low

Exposure:

Mature size:

Growth rate:

Full Sun; Filtered Sun

3'x5'

Slow-Moderate

Flower color:

Flower season:

Pruning:

Yellow; Orange; Red

Spring; Summer; Fall

None

Wildlife

Monarchs:

Nectar pollinators:

Yes

Nighttime pollinators:

Yes

Rabbit resistant:

Yes

The Fishhook or Arizona Barrel Cactus is a resilient desert plant known for its distinctive cylindrical shape and impressive size, reaching up to 10 feet tall and 3 feet wide. Its body features prominent vertical ribs lined with sharp, hooked central spines that protect it from predators and offer shade to minimize water loss in the desert heat. Well-adapted to arid environments, this cactus stores water in its thick, fleshy stem, making it highly drought-tolerant. It's best to water sparingly, allowing the soil to dry out completely between waterings, as overwatering can lead to root rot.

The Fishhook Barrel Cactus produces striking flowers in shades of yellow, orange, and red, typically blooming at the top of the plant from spring to fall. These blooms attract various pollinators, including cactus bees and birds, which aid in its reproduction. After pollination, the cactus forms fleshy, barrel-shaped fruits that serve as a food source for local wildlife such as mule deer, birds, and Antelope Ground Squirrels. Birds especially enjoy the seeds, helping with seed dispersal.

This cactus thrives in full sun and well-drained soil, requiring minimal maintenance once established. It can tolerate high heat and poor soil, making it an ideal choice for desert gardens. The combination of its yellow or tan spines and the characteristic fishhook-like central spines, along with its vibrant blooms, make the Fishhook Barrel Cactus a striking addition to any landscape, especially when paired with other desert plants like agaves and ocotillos.

Growing Plants in the Desert — Important Information

The information presented here is, to the best of my knowledge, accurate and based on my research from reliable sources, observations I have made of plants growing in my, and other gardens I have visited, and observations of the plants in their native habitats. I would appreciate your feedback and experience to help me educate others!

Cacti: In my experience, cacti are much happier in the filtered shade here in the low desert of the Coachella Valley. Colors are more vibrant and they bloom more profusely, especially the non-native varieties. If you pay attention to how our native barrel and beavertail opuntia grow in the wild, it is frequently tucked in the rocks under creosote or another shrub.

Light Requirements: I have found that in our desert (Sonoran/Colorado) “full sun” plants can take and appreciate the late afternoon filtered sun, especially in the hot summer months.