Lemon Barrel Cactus

Identification

Ferocactus glaucescens develops a blue-green to gray-green ribbed body with stout pale spines. Do not identify it from yellow color alone; lighting, stress, wax, and cultivar traits can all alter appearance.

Care

Light

Give the brightest position available. Move a greenhouse-grown plant into direct sun gradually to prevent permanent scorch.

Water

Water thoroughly during active growth, let all excess drain, and wait until the entire mix is dry. Keep much drier during cool, low-light winter conditions.

Temperature

Protect container plants from freezing and prolonged cold dampness. It cannot overwinter outdoors in Lafayette.

Standard soil mix

Use two parts pumice, perlite, or other coarse mineral aggregate; one part coarse sand or fine gravel; and one part potting mix. The container must have an open drainage hole.

Flowering

Mature plants can produce pale yellow flowers around the crown when light, age, and seasonal conditions are suitable. Indoor flowering is not guaranteed.

Propagation

Seed is the normal method. Some plants produce offsets that can be separated after a cut surface has dried. Use clean tools and protect hands from spines.

Environment and native habitat

Kew places F. glaucescens in northeastern Mexico to Veracruz, in desert or dry shrubland. Its ribbed, water-storing body and extensive shallow roots fit rainfall that arrives in pulses and soil that drains rapidly.