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Cactus SucculentHouseplantsConservatory Greenhouse

Ferocactus viridescens

coast barrel cactus

A cactus with bright green, usually solitary, globose or cylindric, shallowly ribbed stems to 30cm in height; central spines yellow, curved, to 5cm in length. Flowers 5cm, green or tinged with red

Other common names
keg cactus

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Size
Ultimate height
0.1–0.5 metres
Time to ultimate height
10–20 years
Ultimate spread
0.1–0.5 metres
Growing conditions
Loam
Sand
Moisture
Well–drained
pH
Acid, Alkaline, Neutral
Colour & scent
StemFlowerFoliageFruit
Spring Green
Summer Green Green Red
Autumn Green
Winter Green
Position
  • Full sun
Aspect

South–facing or North–facing or East–facing

Exposure
Sheltered
Hardiness
H1C
Botanical details
Family
Cactaceae
Native to GB / Ireland
No
Foliage
Evergreen
Habit
Clump forming
Genus

Ferocactus are spherical to columnar cacti with prominent ribs bearing spiny areoles, the spines sometimes hooked, and funnel-shaped flowers in summer

Name status

Correct

Plant range
USA, Mexico

How to grow

Cultivation

Grow under glass in a standard cactus compost, in bright, filtered light, with low humidity. When in growth water moderately and feed every two or three weeks with a balanced liquid feed. Keep almost dry in the winter

Propagation

Propagate by seed sown at 10 - 20°C in early spring

Suggested planting locations and garden types
  • Patio and container plants
  • Low Maintenance
Pruning

No pruning required

Pests

May be susceptible to mealybugs

Diseases

Generally disease-free

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