Echinocactus grusonii , known as the golden barrel cactus , favourable testis or mother - in - law ’s cushion , is a coinage of barrel cactus which is endemic to east - central Mexico . It is find near Mesa de León in the Department of State of Querétaro , and in the country of Hidalgo . The Golden Barrel Cactus features global shape and golden - yellow spines . When ripe , it can reach sizes of up to three feet in diameter .
Heinrich Hildmann , a famed German plantsman , was the first to formally delineate this species in 1891 . The specific name “ grusonii ” honor Hermann Gruson , a prominent German industrialist have it off for his love for garner cacti . The prosperous cask is considered a rare and endangered species .
In its innate habitat , it often grows in clusters or group . Like other cacti , this cactus has evolved several adaptations to live on in coarse desert weather condition . Its buddy-buddy , ridicule stems store water , allowing it to withstand extended periods of drouth .
While aboriginal to Mexico , the Golden Barrel Cactus is grow in many parts of the universe as an ornamental flora , in fact , it is one of the most popular cacti in cultivation and has more and more become popular as an architectural accent mark works in contemporary garden designs ( unremarkably used in xeriscaping ) . This cactus is behind - growing and can take several geezerhood to make maturity .
While commonly referred to as the “ golden ball ” cactus due to its spherical shape and gilt - yellow spines , it ’s important to observe that there are many other similar - looking specie particularly those grow from Brazil and Paraguay , likeNotocactus leninghausiiwhich are sometimes referred to as the “ fortunate barrel cactus ” . However , unlike Echinocactus grusonii , Notocactus leninghausii feature hazy , harmless spines .
Physical Characteristics of Golden Barrel Cactus
Common Uses of Golden Barrel Cactus
How To Grow And Care For Golden Barrel Cactus
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Provide copious sunshine for your Golden Barrel Cactus . commit it in a location where it receives at least six time of day of direct sunlight per day , such as a south - confront windowpane if grown indoors . outside , secure it ’s in a cheery spot with protection from intense afternoon sun , especially in hotter climates .
Temperature
Golden Barrel Cacti expand in warm temperatures exchangeable to their native habitat . Keep them in temperature between 70 ° F to 100 ° F ( 21 ° vitamin C to 38 ° vitamin C ) during the growing time of year . They can tolerate cooler temperatures during the winter but should be protect from frost .
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institute your Golden Barrel Cactus in well - draining soil commixture specifically formulated for cacti and succulents . you’re able to also amend regular potting ground with sand or perlite to improve drainage . obviate heavy , water - retentive soils that can lead to theme rot .
Watering
permit the soil to dry out completely between watering sessions . Golden Barrel Cacti are drought - tolerant and are susceptible to ancestor rot if overwatered . During the grow season ( bounce and summer ) , water sparingly , approximately every 2 - 3 weeks . Reduce lacrimation frequency in the fall and wintertime months to mimic their natural inactive period .
Potting
prefer a container with drain holes to preclude boggy soil . Repot your Golden Barrel Cactus every 2 - 3 twelvemonth in spring , using impertinent cactus potting intermixture . Be cautious when handling the works due to its spines .
fecundation
Golden Barrel Cacti have minimal plant food requirements . lend oneself a balanced , water - soluble fertiliser diluted to half - long suit during the growing time of year ( spring and summer ) once a calendar month . Avoid fertilize during the dormant period .
Pruning and Maintenance
slay dead or damaged tissue with clean , sharp scissors or dress shears . Wear protective gloves to avoid injury from the cactus spines . Regularly scrutinize the plant for signs of pests such as shell insects or mealybugs , and treat infestations quick .
Propagation
Golden Barrel Cacti can be propagated from offsets ( pups ) that emerge from the stand of mature plants . Allow the offsets to develop root before transplanting them into their own spate . Propagation is best done in natural spring or early summer when the works is actively grow .
