Water
Water thoroughly when the soil is completely dry, typically in summer. Reduce watering significantly in fall and winter, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings.
Overwatering is the primary cause of root rot for this species.
Ferocactus diguetii, the Santa Catalina barrel cactus, is a large, barrel-shaped cactus native to Baja California, Mexico. It features prominent ribs and striking spines.
At-a-glance light, water, soil, and growing conditions from plant data
Full Sun
100% intensity
Prefers intense sunlight for best growth and flowering.
Infrequent
25% intensity
Allow soil to dry completely between waterings, less in winter.
Well-draining, sandy, gritty
50% intensity
Warm to Moderate
75% intensity
Prefers warm temperatures during growth; can tolerate cooler but frost-free conditions in dormancy.
Infrequent
25% intensity
Use diluted cactus fertilizer sparingly during the growing season.
Safety information from plant toxicity data
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Toxic for humans | No 0/5 intensity |
| Toxic for pets | No 0/5 intensity |
None
Key traits and growing stats from plant data
Watering, pruning, propagation, and repotting details from plant data
Water thoroughly when the soil is completely dry, typically in summer. Reduce watering significantly in fall and winter, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings.
Overwatering is the primary cause of root rot for this species.
Pruning is generally not required for Ferocactus diguetii unless removing dead or damaged parts. Use a clean, sharp knife or saw to make cuts close to the main stem. Sterilize tools to prevent disease transmission.
Propagate Ferocactus diguetii by seed. Sow seeds in a well-draining cactus mix and keep them warm and lightly moist. Germination can be slow and erratic. Cuttings are not a viable method for this species.
Repot mature plants every 2-3 years in spring, or when they outgrow their container. Use a gritty, well-draining cactus mix. Choose a pot that is only slightly larger than the current one to avoid waterlogging.
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Monthly activity intensity for bloom and fruit across both hemispheres.
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Photos of Santa Catalina Barrel Cactus (Ferocactus diguetii)
Common names and botanical synonyms
Botanical classification
| Rank | Name |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Division | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Caryophyllales |
| Family | Cactaceae |
| Genus | Ferocactus |
| Species | Ferocactus diguetii |
Similar in genus Ferocactus
Answers based on plant encyclopedia data
