Plant guide

California barrel cactus.

Ferocactus cylindraceus

Pronounced feh-roh-KAK-tus sil-in-DRA-see-us

Also known as California Barrel Cactus, Compass Barrel Cactus, Le Conte barrel cactus, Miner's Compass, cliff barrel cactus, compass cactus, desert barrel cactus, golden-spine barrel cactus

This striking desert native is known for its stout, cylindrical shape and impressive spines. It thrives in harsh, arid conditions where it stores water to survive long droughts. You will love how it brings a rugged, desert aesthetic to your sunny windowsills.

At a glance

Care level: Easy
Plant type: Succulent
Light: Full sun
Indoor light: Direct sun
Water: Every 14 to 30 days
Mature size: 3 to 6 feet tall
Growth rate: Slow

Care

Provide as much direct sunlight as possible to maintain its compact shape. Allow the soil to dry out completely between waterings to prevent root rot. Watch for soft or mushy spots on the stem, which indicate the plant is getting too much moisture.

Watering: Water deeply during the growing season but keep it dry in winter.
Feeding: Feed with a low nitrogen cactus fertilizer during the spring and summer.
Pruning: Only remove dead or damaged tissue if absolutely necessary.
Repotting: Repot only when the plant has clearly outgrown its current container.
Soil: Well draining cactus mix
Soil pH: 6.0 to 7.5

Safety

Pets: This plant is generally considered non-toxic to cats and dogs, though its sharp spines pose a physical injury risk.

How to identify it

Stout cylindrical green stem
Dense clusters of hooked spines
Yellow to red funnel shaped flowers
Deep vertical ribs along body

Science

Family: Cactaceae
Genus: Ferocactus
Order: Caryophyllales
Class: Magnoliopsida

Taxonomy resolved against GBIF.

Is your california barrel cactus looking unwell?

This page is a general guide. Pocket Botanist diagnoses problems from a photo of your actual plant, works out watering for your light and conditions, and reminds you when care is due.

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This guide was generated with AI and checked against GBIF taxonomy. It is general information, not horticultural or veterinary advice. Read about how we build these guides.