A round, bright green barrel wrapped in golden-yellow spines that glow when the sun is behind them. Native to central Mexico, it is one of the most recognizable cacti in Valley landscapes and looks best planted in groups.
Living with it in the Phoenix Valley
Watering
Follow the cactus guidance in our Landscape Care guide, which calls for hand-watering only when needed. It needs only infrequent water. Poorly drained soil is the main cause of root rot.
Pruning
None needed. Wear thick leather gloves if you ever move it.
Heat and sunburn
In full, reflected sun during long runs above 115°F, golden barrels can scorch and even collapse. Filtered afternoon shade from a desert tree, or a spot away from hot west walls, keeps them looking their best.
How our designers use it
Groups of three or more
Clustered under the filtered shade of a palo verde, a group of golden barrels reads as one bold, glowing mass.
Year-round color
The spines act as color in a garden that might otherwise be all greens and grays, and they shine when backlit at sunrise and sunset.
Patio pots
A single barrel in a simple container makes a clean accent on a patio or entry.
Good to know
Around the pool
The spines are stiff and sit right at ankle height. Keep it a few feet off pool decks, paths and play areas.
