Also known as Ferocactus Pilosus · Mexican Fire Barrel · Mexican Fire Barrel Cactus
Ferocactus pilosus is a striking barrel cactus with vibrant red spines, native to Mexico. It's a low-maintenance succulent, perfect for arid gardens and containers.
At-a-glance light, water, soil, and growing conditions from plant data
Full sun
100% intensity
Prefers bright, direct sunlight for at least 6-8 hours daily. Can tolerate some partial shade if acclimatized gradually.
Infrequent, deep watering
25% intensity
Allow soil to dry out completely between waterings. Reduce significantly in winter.
Sandy, Well-drained
50% intensity
Warm to moderate
75% intensity
Prefers temperatures between 20-30°C during the day. Can tolerate cooler temperatures (down to 10°C) in winter if kept dry.
Moderate feeding during growing season
50% intensity
Use a diluted cactus fertilizer once a month in spring and summer. Do not fertilize in autumn or winter.
Safety information from plant toxicity data
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Toxic for humans | No 0/5 intensity |
| Toxic for pets | No 0/5 intensity |
Non-toxic to pets and humans.
Key traits and growing stats from plant data
Watering, pruning, propagation, and repotting details from plant data
Allow the soil to dry out completely between waterings. Water thoroughly when the potting mix is dry, typically every 2-4 weeks during the growing season.
Reduce watering significantly in winter, providing only enough to prevent the soil from becoming bone dry. Overwatering can lead to root rot.
Pruning is generally not required for Ferocactus pilosus. Remove any dead or damaged stems or roots during repotting.
If the plant becomes overgrown or misshapen, carefully remove unwanted parts with a sterile knife or saw. Ensure cuts are clean to prevent disease.
Propagate Ferocactus pilosus from seeds or offsets. Sow seeds in a well-draining cactus mix and keep warm and moist.
Offsets can be removed from the parent plant, allowed to callus for a few days, and then planted in their own pots of well-draining soil.
Repot Ferocactus pilosus every 2-3 years, or when the plant outgrows its container. Use a well-draining cactus or succulent potting mix. Choose a pot slightly larger than the current one with drainage holes.
Handle with care due to the sharp spines.
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Monthly activity intensity for bloom and fruit across both hemispheres.
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Photos of Mexican Lime Cactus (Ferocactus pilosus)
Where Mexican Lime Cactus (Ferocactus pilosus) 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 pilosus |
Similar in genus Ferocactus
Answers based on plant encyclopedia data
