Ferocactus electracanthus

Ferocactus electracanthus is a bold, spiny cactus species known for its thick, hooked central spines—often  yellow—and its classic barrel shape. Like other Ferocactus, it’s super hardy and well-suited to hot, dry environments, making it a great pick for xeriscapes or sunny windowsills.

Here’s a full care guide:

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🌵 Ferocactus electracanthus Care Guide

☀️ Light

• Full sun is best—this cactus loves intense light.

• Outdoors: Place in a spot with 6–8 hours of direct sun.

• Indoors: Use the sunniest south-facing window or supplement with a grow light.

💧 Watering

• Water deeply but infrequently.

• Let soil dry completely between waterings.

• Spring–Fall: Every 2–3 weeks depending on heat/humidity.

• Winter: Minimal or no watering when dormant.

🌱 Soil

• Needs a very well-draining cactus mix.

• Amend regular mix with pumice, perlite, or coarse sand.

• Avoid any soil that retains moisture for too long.

🌡️ Temperature & Humidity

• Thrives in warm, dry climates.

• Ideal temp: 70–95°F (21–35°C).

• Tolerates brief drops to around 40°F (4°C) if kept dry.

• Not frost-hardy.

🍽️ Fertilizer

• Use a diluted cactus fertilizer once a month during active growth (spring–summer).

• Don’t fertilize during fall or winter.

🪴 Repotting

• Repot every 2–4 years or when it outgrows the pot.

• Use gloves—it has serious spines!

🌸 Flowers

• Produces yellow to reddish flowers at the top of the barrel when mature.

• Needs lots of sun and age (usually several years) to bloom.