Water
Water sparingly, allowing the soil to dry out completely between waterings. Overwatering is the most common cause of root rot. During the winter dormancy, reduce watering significantly or cease altogether.
Also known as Blue Barrel Cactus · Devil's Head Cactus · Devil-Head Cactus
Devilshead cactus (Echinocactus horizonthalonius) is a slow-growing, barrel-shaped cactus with prominent ribs and distinctive, hooked spines.
At-a-glance light, water, soil, and growing conditions from plant data
Full sun to light shade.
100% intensity
Protect from intense afternoon sun in very hot climates.
Allow soil to dry completely between waterings.
25% intensity
Reduce watering significantly in winter.
Well-draining
50% intensity
Tolerates high temperatures well.
75% intensity
Can withstand light frost if kept dry.
Fertilize sparingly during the growing season.
25% intensity
Use a diluted, low-nitrogen cactus fertilizer.
Safety information from plant toxicity data
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Toxic for humans | No 0/5 intensity |
| Toxic for pets | No 0/5 intensity |
Key traits and growing stats from plant data
Watering, pruning, propagation, and repotting details from plant data
Water sparingly, allowing the soil to dry out completely between waterings. Overwatering is the most common cause of root rot. During the winter dormancy, reduce watering significantly or cease altogether.
Pruning is generally not required for Echinocactus horizonthalonius. If a stem or fruit needs removal due to damage or disease, use a clean, sharp knife and allow the wound to callus over before watering.
Propagation is typically done through seed. Sow seeds in a well-draining cactus mix and keep warm and slightly moist. Cuttings are not usually successful due to the plant's growth habit.
Repot every 2-3 years or when the plant outgrows its container. Use a gritty, fast-draining cactus potting mix. Repot in the spring before the active growing season begins.
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Monthly activity intensity for bloom and fruit across both hemispheres.
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Photos of Devilshead (Echinocactus horizonthalonius)
Where Devilshead (Echinocactus horizonthalonius) is found

Density
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Common names and botanical synonyms
Botanical classification
| Rank | Name |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Division | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Caryophyllales |
| Family | Cactaceae |
| Genus | Echinocactus |
| Species | Echinocactus horizonthalonius |
Similar in genus Echinocactus
Answers based on plant encyclopedia data