Water
Water thoroughly when the soil is completely dry, typically during the growing season (spring/summer). Reduce watering significantly in autumn and winter to prevent root rot.
Ensure good drainage to avoid waterlogged conditions.
Also known as Red-Spined Barrel Cactus · Yellow-Spined Barrel Cactus
Ferocactus chrysacanthus, the Golden-spined barrel cactus, is a striking barrel cactus native to Mexico, prized for its golden spines.
At-a-glance light, water, soil, and growing conditions from plant data
Full sun to bright indirect light.
100% intensity
Provide at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily.
Allow soil to dry out completely between waterings.
25% intensity
Reduce watering in cooler months.
Sandy, well-draining soil
50% intensity
Warm to hot temperatures.
75% intensity
Ideal range is 20-30°C. Can tolerate higher. Protect from frost.
Outdoor
50% intensity
Moderate feeding during growing season.
25% intensity
Use diluted cactus fertilizer once in spring and once in early summer.
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 thoroughly when the soil is completely dry, typically during the growing season (spring/summer). Reduce watering significantly in autumn and winter to prevent root rot.
Ensure good drainage to avoid waterlogged conditions.
Pruning is generally not required for Ferocactus chrysacanthus as it grows slowly and maintains a desirable shape. Remove any dead or damaged arms only if absolutely necessary to maintain plant health or aesthetics.
Use clean tools.
Propagate from seeds sown in spring or early summer. Seeds require warmth and consistent moisture for germination.
Cuttings are less common for this species but can be taken from offsets if available, ensuring they callus before planting.
Repot every 2-4 years, or when the cactus becomes root-bound. Use a gritty, fast-draining potting mix specifically formulated for cacti. Repot in spring before active growth begins, handling the spiny plant with care.
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Monthly activity intensity for bloom and fruit across both hemispheres.
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Photos of Golden-Spined Barrel Cactus (Ferocactus chrysacanthus)
Where Golden-Spined Barrel Cactus (Ferocactus chrysacanthus) 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 | Ferocactus |
| Species | Ferocactus chrysacanthus |
Similar in genus Ferocactus
Answers based on plant encyclopedia data