Also known as Biznaga-De-Limilla · Fishhook Cactus · Mexican Fruit Cactus
Turk's Head Cactus (Ferocactus hamatacanthus) is a barrel cactus known for its striking hooked spines and vibrant yellow to red flowers. Native to arid regions, it thrive
At-a-glance light, water, soil, and growing conditions from plant data
Full Sun
100% intensity
Requires bright, direct sunlight for at least 6-8 hours daily. Can tolerate some partial shade in extremely hot climates.
Infrequent
25% intensity
Allow soil to dry out completely between waterings. Reduce significantly in winter.
Well-draining, sandy, gritty
50% intensity
Moderate to High
75% intensity
Thrives in warm temperatures (20-35°C). Can tolerate cooler temperatures in winter dormancy (around 10°C) but protect from frost.
Low
25% intensity
Feed sparingly during the growing season with a diluted, balanced cactus fertilizer.
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
Allow the soil to dry out completely between waterings. Overwatering is the most common cause of root rot.
Reduce watering significantly during the winter dormancy period, providing only enough to prevent the soil from becoming bone dry. Water thoroughly when the plant shows signs of thirst, such as slight wrinkling.
Pruning is generally not required for Ferocactus hamatacanthus. Remove any dead or damaged stem sections or roots promptly to prevent disease.
If propagation is desired, stem or offset removal can be considered a form of pruning. Use a sterilized knife for clean cuts.
Propagate primarily by seeds sown in spring or summer. Sow seeds on a well-draining cactus mix and keep them warm and lightly moist.
Offsets or 'pups' can also be detached from the parent plant, allowed to callus for a few days, and then planted in a gritty substrate.
Repot every 2-3 years or when the cactus outgrows its container. Use a well-draining cactus or succulent potting mix. Choose a pot that is only slightly larger than the current one. Repot in spring or early summer.
Handle with care due to spines; wear thick gloves.
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Monthly activity intensity for bloom and fruit across both hemispheres.
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Photos of Turk's Head (Ferocactus hamatacanthus)
Common names and botanical synonyms
Botanical classification
| Rank | Name |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Division | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Caryophyllales |
| Family | Cactaceae |
| Genus | Ferocactus |
| Species | Ferocactus hamatacanthus |
Similar in genus Ferocactus
Answers based on plant encyclopedia data
