Back
Ferocactus gracilis (H. E. Gates) N. P. Taylor subsp. coloratus
| Family Name: | Cactaceae |
| Synonyms: | Ferocactus coloratus, Ferocactus gracilis var. coloratus |
| Common Name: | Fire Barrel Cactus |
Name
Classifications and Characteristics
| Plant Division | Angiosperms (Flowering Seed Plants) (Dicotyledon) |
|---|---|
| Plant Growth Form | Succulent Plant |
| Lifespan (in Singapore) | Perennial |
| Mode of Nutrition | Autotrophic |
| Plant Shape | Columnar |
| Maximum Height | 1.2 m to 2.4 m |
Biogeography
| Native Distribution | Mexico |
|---|---|
| Native Habitat | Terrestrial |
| Preferred Climate Zone | Desert / Arid |
| Local Conservation Status | Non-native |
| CITES Protection | True |
Description and Ethnobotany
| Growth Form | Columnar, solitary cactus that usually grows up to 1.2 m tall, but can grow up to 2.4 m tall. |
|---|---|
| Stems | Columnar stem is composed of 13-20 ribs, depending on age. The ribs are lined with oval clusters of spines known as areoles (1.7-2 cm long) which are spaced 1.7-2 cm apart. Each areole is composed of 9 pink to dark red central spines (up to 5 cm long) and 10-14 whitish radial spines. Thick, stiff central spines are annulate (ringed like an earthworm), straight or slightly hooked near the tip, and conical or flattened. Radial spines are thin and flexible. |
| Flowers | Funnel-shaped, yellow flowers are composed of oblong, pointed petals which have a bright red mid-stripe. Numerous bright red stamens surround a bright red stigma with multiple, yellow tips. |
| Fruit | Fruits are yellow with a thick, leathery skin. |
Landscaping Features
| Desirable Plant Features | Ornamental Form |
|---|---|
| Landscape Uses | Container Planting |
| Thematic Landscaping | Rockery / Desert Garden |
| Usage Hazard - Cons | Spines/Thorns - Stem/Branch |
Plant Care and Propagation
| Light Preference | Full Sun |
|---|---|
| Water Preference | Little Water |
| Rootzone Tolerance | Drought Tolerant, Well-Drained Soils |
| Propagation Method | Seed |
Foliar
| Foliar Modification | Spine (axillary) |
|---|
Floral (Angiosperm)
| Flower & Plant Sexuality | Bisexual Flowers |
| Flower Colour(s) | Yellow / Golden |
|---|
Fruit, Seed and Spore
| Mature Fruit Colour(s) | Yellow / Golden |
|---|
Image Repository
Others
| Master ID | 31926 |
|---|---|
| Species ID | 6328 |
| Flora Disclaimer | The information in this website has been compiled from reliable sources, such as reference works on medicinal plants. It is not a substitute for medical advice or treatment and NParks does not purport to provide any medical advice. Readers should always consult his/her physician before using or consuming a plant for medicinal purposes. |
