The Barrel Cactus has poisonous sap, which is found in the ribs of the plant and may cause irritation to the skin. Also, it has sharp needles that are embedded in its pads for protection against predators. However, these are not contaminated with toxins but only a latex-like liquid (which can cause irritation to your…
Barrel cacti, like their close relative the saguaro (Carnegiea gigantea), are native to the Sonoran Desert of North America. They are one of the most common desert plants, and can also be called cylindrical cacti or opuntia. While it’s true that, unlike tropical desert plants, barrel cacti don’t need a lot of water to survive—even…
Echinocactus grusonii, commonly called mother-in-law’s seat, golden ball, golden barrel, or hedgehog cactus, is a species belonging to the Cactaceae family. The small genus to which it belongs, Echinocactus, together with its related genus Ferocactus, is commonly known as barrel cacti. Golden Barrel Cactus typically reaches 3 feet high by 2.5 feet wide, ribs 21…
The Fishhook Barrel Cactus, or also known as the Candy Barrel or Compass Barrel, is a very common and widespread species of barrel cactus native to North America. It is found in Arizona, California and Sonora in Mexico. It was given its name because of its fruit which looks similar to a fishhook. This fruit…