Ferocactus glaucescens
Family: Cactaceae​
​Common Name: blue barrel cactus
Origin: Ferocactus glaucescens originates from the states of Guanajuato, Querétaro, San Luis Potosí, and Hidalgo, eastern central Mexico. It is found in dry deciduous forests and shrubland on limestone hills, at altitudes of 550 to 2,300 meters.
Description: The blue barrel cactus develops a medium glaucous form, globular when young and columnar in maturity. Stems are ribbed and covered in long golden spines, thick and sharp. Multiple heads are produced, and even solitary species will eventually develop into a large mound. In spring through late summer, the cacti may produce funnel-shaped yellow flowers.
  • Interesting Features:
    • F. glaucescens develops a very interesting appearance, contrasting the blue-gray coloring with vibrant yellow spines, golden flowers, and the eventual development of round white fruits.
    • The cacti has received the Royal Horticultural Society’s Award of Garden Merit for outstanding value in cultivation.
  • Uses: Bees are attracted to the blooms, allowing the blue barrel cactus to be used in pollinator gardens. Additionally, the Hualapai and Pima people include the fruit as part of their diet, preparing in a variety of dishes.

Cultivation and Care:
  • Watering: Moderate
    • Water often during the summer season, irrigating when the soil is completely dry (about once per week). However, do not expose the stem to moisture, as this can lead to sunburn, fungal infections, and death. During the winter months, plants must be kept completely dry 
  • Soil: Provide a mixture of 10% native soil, 45% washed sand or pumice, and 45% compost if siting outdoors. For indoor plants, cultivate in a porous well-draining cactus or succulent soil. Observe a pH from 6.1 to 7.8, and do not add humus for the best growth.
  • Lighting: Ferocactus glaucescens should be sited in a location that will receive sunlight throughout most of the day. However, during especially hot summers, light shade can be provided.
  • Propagation: The blue barrel cactus produces basal offsets, which can be removed to develop a new plant. Additionally, propagation is possible through cuttings and seed, which should be planted indoors during spring or summer. Keep moist and cover with glass until seedlings begin to sprout, and then remove.
  • Cold Tolerance: 25°F, USDA hardiness zones 9b to 11.
  • Special Accommodations: F. glaucescens should be fertilized and watered only during the summer growing season, and protected from heavy frost (light frost is tolerated). Wear gloves when handling, to avoid damage by the sharp spines.

Sources:​
  1. Llifle Encyclopedias of Cacti
  2. Native American Ethnobotany
  3. Plant Lust
  4. Garden
  5. Gardenia
  6. Dave's Garden
  7. World of Succulents
  8. Plant Desert