California Barrel Cactus

Carried by 3 nurseries

Estimated plant range Estimated plant range

Data provided by the participants of the Consortium of California Herbaria

View additional distribution information on the Jepson eflora

Plant description

California Barrel Cactus (Ferocactus cylindraceus) is a striking cylindrical or spherical cactus native to the Mojave and Sonoran deserts. It is covered in long, plentiful spines, which are straight and red when new and become curved and gray as they age. A crown of bright yellow or red flowers sprouts from the barrel in spring or summer. The fleshy, hollow fruits are yellow.

California Barrel Cactus prefers full sun and gravelly, rocky or sandy places and is a host plant for moths and butterflies.

Plant overview

Plant type

Shrub, Succulent

Size

7 - 10 ft Tall

Color

Yellow, Red

Special uses

Containers, Hedge

Landscaping information

Sun

Full Sun

Water

Low, Very Low

Ease of care

Moderate

Soil drainage

Fast

Sunset Zones

7, 12*, 13, 14, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24

Natural setting

Site type

Gravelly, rocky, or sandy places

Plant communities

Creosote Bush Scrub, Joshua Tree Woodland

Wildlife supported

Caterpillars

Butterflies

Butterflies and moths supported

1 confirmed and 1 likely

Confirmed Likely

See all

Pseudoschinia elautalis

Yosemitia Graciella

Yosemitia graciella

Alternative names

Common names:

Biznaga-barril Cilíndrica, California Barrelcactus, Miner's Compass

Botanical names:

Ferocactus cylindraceus var. cylindraceus

Sources

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