Ferocactus

Family. Cactaceae.

Origin. South and Central America.

Description. The genus "ferocactus" consists of 35 spherical cacti with dark green or bluish stems. With age, the stems can take on an elongated cylindrical shape. In their natural habitat, they grow singly, rarely forming lateral shoots. The stems are covered with sharp vertical ribs. The spines are usually straight, their length and color vary greatly depending on the variety. In summer, large funnel-shaped flowers of yellow, red, lilac or orange shades, 3-5 cm in diameter, form at the top of the stems. During the flowering period, a whole flower crown can form at the top of the cactus. Varieties with bright yellow, orange, pink and red spines have been bred.

Height. Cylindrical species reach 3 m in height in nature, while when grown indoors they retain a spherical shape and do not exceed 40 cm. They grow slowly.

Home care

Flowering time 

Buds form in summer, but it is reluctant to bloom indoors.

Transplanting

In the spring, as they grow, replant the cacti in fresh soil, using pots with large drainage holes. When planting, it is advisable to surround the root collar with a layer of sand or small pebbles. 

Containment temperature

During the growing season, normal room temperature is suitable; wintering is preferably cool, but the temperature should not fall below 12 ° C.

Watering

Do not allow moisture to stagnate - water sparingly even in the warm season. Dry the soil to a depth of about 3 cm in spring and summer before the next watering. In autumn and winter, gradually reduce watering to a minimum. 

Lighting

Place the cacti in a brightly lit area, using only light shade during daylight hours. In autumn and winter, choose the maximum lighted location. Ferocactus will happily bathe in the sun's rays in the morning and evening hours.

Reproduction

Easily propagated by seeds sown in spring or early summer in loose, well-drained soil. Cuttings of lateral shoots.

Substrate

Moisture- and breathable substrate with a slightly acidic pH. A mixture of leaf humus, turf soil with a large amount of coarse river sand or perlite to improve drainage and small pieces of charcoal is suitable. You can use a ready-made substrate for cacti and succulents. Grows well in soils poor in nutrients. 

Feeding

From spring to autumn, feed monthly with liquid fertilizer at half strength.

Pests and diseases

Сactus rot when there is excess moisture, especially in the cold season. 

Plants are vulnerable to spider mites, aphids or mealybugs.

Purpose

Ferocactus is charming at any time of the year.

Air humidity

Does not require spraying and is quite happy in the dry air of living spaces. Likes ventilated rooms with good air flow. 

Note

Be careful when working with the cactus - your hands can be easily injured by the long spines.