Ferocactus histrix 🌵

Ferocactus histrix, commonly known as the acitrón barrel cactus or fire barrel cactus, is a globular cactus when young that becomes columnar with age, reaching up to 1.2 meters in height and 80 centimeters in diameter. It is native to the arid and semi-arid regions of Mexico and is distinguished by its bright light green color and pronounced ribs, which typically range from 20 to 40 depending on the plant's maturity. Its areoles have very rigid, flattened radial and central spines of a striking yellow color that turns reddish or grayish with age. During the summer, it produces bell-shaped flowers at the top of the stem, which are bright yellow, sometimes with reddish tints. Its fruits are fleshy, edible, acidic, and greenish-yellow, which historically led to its overexploitation for the production of traditional sweets. It is a drought-resistant species that requires direct sunlight and well-drained soil to prevent root rot.