Ferocactus glaucescens

Blue Barrel Cactus

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A robust barrel cactus featuring blue-grey skin and formidable straight spines. Native to Mexican deserts, it produces magenta flowers in summer once mature.
yard Succulents plants wb_sunny Half-shade pets Not pet-safe
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Plant Details

Common Name Blue Barrel Cactus
Family Cactaceae
Genus Ferocactus
Species Glaucescens
Origin Mexico
Blooming Blooms in summer after maturity, usually requires 10+ years indoors
Leaf Color Blue-green glaucous epidermis with white/grey spines
Sunlight Half-shade
Category Succulents plants
Pet Friendly close No
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Care & Maintenance

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Soil

Specialized cactus mix with high perlite or pumice content for maximum drainage and aeration.

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Watering

Water deeply only when soil is completely dry. Reduce watering drastically during winter dormancy to prevent root rot.

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Sunlight & Care

Requires full sun exposure to maintain shape and color. Indoors, place in the brightest south-facing window available.

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Fertilization

Apply diluted cactus fertilizer monthly during active growth (Spring/Summer). Do not fertilize in winter.

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Pruning

Handle with thick gloves. Remove dead spines or damaged ribs only when necessary for structural integrity.

Pest Control Mealybug Scale Insect Spider Mite

These are the insects and pathogens that commonly interact with this plant, including pests, parasites, and organisms typically associated with its care.

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Seasonal Periods

local_florist Flowering Period 3 months
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
eco Leaf Persistence 12 months
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
thermostat

Growing Parameters

thermostat
Temperature
50° – 100°
Fahrenheit
Ideal ambient air temperature range for healthy growth
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Humidity
20% – 60%
% relative
Optimal relative air humidity the plant thrives in
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Light (LUX)
2500 – 60000
Lux
Ambient illuminance level at the plant's surface
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Light (PAR)
5 – 60
mmol/m²/s
Photosynthetically active radiation (PAR) intensity
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Soil Moisture
5% – 45%
% volumetric
Water content in the growing medium
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Soil EC
300 – 1800
mS/cm
Electrical conductivity (nutrient concentration in soil water)
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Common Problems

Something wrong with your Ferocactus glaucescens? Select a symptom to diagnose and fix the issue.

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