Golden Barrel Cactus Care

The golden barrel cactus (Echinocactus grusonii) is a plump and spiky plant. This plant is rounded in shape and grows to a height of up to 3 feet tall and 3 feet wide, which is why it is called the “barrel” cactus. Its body is covered in yellow spikes that grow in clusters along the ribs.

Being a spiky type of cactus, owners should be wary where they place this plant. Make sure to keep it out of reach of children and pets to ensure their safety. Placing them in containers or safer areas is ideal to avoid any potential injuries. 

Tips on How to Care for your Barrel Cactus

The golden barrel cactus requires minimal care, like a lot of other cacti. This cacti requires less frequent watering compared to other plants. However, in fields and nurseries where barrel cacti are grown, they may be watered more frequently to encourage growth.

Watering

When giving water to your cacti, drench the soil and wait for it to dry before watering it again. This particular type of barrel cactus, like others, hates having its roots sitting in flooded soil. Make sure to place your plant in a well-draining soil to avoid the cactus’ roots from rotting.

Sunlight

This cactus requires a good amount of sunlight. When looking for a place to situate your cactus, put it in an area where light can shine on most of the plant. However, it is important to take note that excess sunlight can turn your cactus yellow, so be mindful of its positioning in your garden or home.

Potting/Landscaping

Barrel cacti grow in groups when cared for properly. These plants are great for landscaping as they stand out when clustered together, often becoming a focal point in your garden. 

This cactus can produce offshoots called ‘pups’ which can be uprooted and replanted. When pruning, remember to wear gloves or cover the cacti in layers of newspaper to avoid puncturing yourself with its sharp spines. If you choose to grow them in large containers, ensure that there is enough space for the pups to develop. This way, your barrel cactus will happily flourish and expand its family in a container garden setting.

Why Add Golden Barrel Cacti to your Collection?

There are plenty of reasons to consider adding the golden barrel cactus to your indoor and outdoor garden. First and foremost, like most cacti, they are incredibly low maintenance making them perfect for beginners in gardening. With minimal watering needs and the right amount of sunlight, they can thrive without putting in much effort.

Not only are they easy to take care of, but they are also great ornamental pieces that give life to your plant collection. With the golden spines of this cacti that stand out from the green, they easily become a centerpiece in your garden. The visual appeal of the golden barrel cactus makes it fascinating and captivating to look at.