If you’re out in the desert and come across a cactus, there’s a good chance it’s a barrel cactus. These distinctively shaped plants are one of the most recognizable cacti, and they’re also pretty easy to identify. Here are a few tips on how to spot a barrel cactus.
What cactus looks like a barrel cactus?
The barrel cactus is instantly recognizable due to its distinct shape and size; it looks a lot like a cylinder or an upside-down bowl. Its short and stubby stature, combined with its spines which come in a variety of sizes and colors, make this type of cactus an interesting addition to any home or garden.
Several types of cacti look like barrel cacti and range from the large Ribbed Barrel Cactus to the small Golden Barrel Cactus. Each one is unique and adds a desert flair wherever it’s placed.
How do I identify my cactus?
If you’ve stumbled across a cactus, it can be a bit overwhelming to figure out what kind of species you have. Lucky for you, there are several methods you can use to identify its type. Before getting into specifics though, it’s important to know that if your cactus is in a natural environment, don’t disturb it and leave it as-is – unless of course you’re experienced enough to transplant or care for cactus outdoors.
If it appears to be established in a pot, carefully observe unique features as these often vary between species – such as the number and shape of ribs, spines color, presence of flowers, and so on. Take note of other details too, like if the body is made of barrels stacked atop one another or more globular with curved edges. There are also online resources that list different types of cacti with pictures allowing you to make comparisons visually – but always remember that even seemingly similar species may have some subtle differences so stay mindful!
How many types of barrel cactus are there?
Did you know that there are many different types of barrel cacti? Well, it’s true! There are up to 30 species classed as barrel cacti, which can range in size quite dramatically. From the small and dainty covering of spines seen on the Ferocactus cathodes to the large “fishhook” columnar cacti of Echinocactus platy acanthus, species of barrel cacti do come in all shapes and sizes.
It may be hard to imagine them when thinking about this type of plant, but some barrel cacti have very long, flat ribbed stems and even some of these plants have lovely pinkish or bluish-green flowers — almost too beautiful for words! Although there is no definitive barrel cactus due to the wide variety available, one thing’s for sure: this type of weather-worn survivor is a must-have for any desert garden.
Is barrel cactus rare?
Barrel cactus is not rare, but they can be difficult to find in some areas. It is most commonly found in the hot and dry regions of the southwestern United States, Mexico, and South America.
But even then, its habitats are quite diverse. Barrel cactus prefers rocky desert plains and mountain meadows as well as open wooded regions with well-drained soil. It generally grows slowly, taking up to 15 years to reach full maturity. As such, they can easily become overgrown or trampled if they’re found in popular areas with a lot of foot traffic!
How long can barrel cactus be without water?
Barrel cactus is traditionally one of the most resilient plants when it comes to dry periods. This makes sense since they are native to desert regions with limited access to water. Some species of barrel cactus can survive up to 8 months without any water at all!
They also have an excellent ability to store moisture in their bulbous shape for extended periods, meaning that when the rain eventually does arrive, they will be able to make very efficient use of it. Of course, this isn’t true for all species of cacti, and depending on where you live, local varieties may need a bit more help during drought spells. So if you own a barrel cactus or are considering getting one as a houseplant, be aware that it won’t require watering too often; just infrequent deep watering every few months should be enough!
How much does a barrel cactus cost?
Barrel cactuses are quite a unique and low-maintenance addition to any garden or collection, but the cost can vary widely depending on size and type. Collector’s barrels can cost a pretty penny, while smaller specimens often go for as little as $5 or less.
If you’re looking for a special one-of-a-kind piece, you may end up spending hundreds of dollars – but if you’re in the market for something more basic, you can likely find it for very pocket-friendly prices. No matter how much you choose to pay, these exotic plants are sure to make an eye-catching statement in any space!
Final Thoughts
The barrel cactus is a recognizable plant that has many unique features. By understanding what to look for, you can successfully identify a barrel cactus in the wild. With this knowledge, you can further appreciate these fascinating plants and all they have to offer.
