Iconic round cactus from Mexico with yellow spines, can grow up to 1.3 meters tall and blooms after many years

Kroenleinia grusonii (syn. Echinocactus grusonii), commonly known as the Golden Barrel Cactus, is one of the most iconic cactus species in the Cactaceae family. Although the species is endangered and locally extinct in its natural habitat in central Mexico, it is now found in many countries on several continents, both in wild populations outside its original range and in private and public gardens.

The Golden Barrel Cactus can grow up to 1.3 meters tall and almost as wide with its characteristic round, cushion-like shape covered in yellow spines. Fluffy yellow flowers appear in the summer at the top of the crown, but only after many years of growth.

The species is relatively hardy and can tolerate short periods down to approximately -8 degrees Celsius.

Care

The Golden Barrel Cactus is relatively easy to care for in a pot. It can handle full sun if air circulation is good and can be placed outdoors in summer. A bright location is important to prevent the cactus from becoming elongated in shape.

It should be watered regularly, but standing water at the base of the cushion can lead to root rot. Well-drained soil and a layer of gravel around the root collar ensure that water does not remain. There is almost no upper limit for heat, but it should preferably not be colder than 15 degrees Celsius indoors.

Cactus fertilizer is applied a few times during the summer months but not at all during the winter months. Watering is reduced and can almost completely cease from late autumn until March. Sometime in April, watering begins again, but carefully by misting the plant itself.

Young plants can be repotted every year, while older plants can stay in the same pot for several years. Newly planted plants should be protected from strong sun for the first few weeks. Buy Golden Barrel Cactus online!