The golden barrel cactus, or Echinocactus grusonii, is a globe-shaped cactus prized for its prominent ribs and sharp, golden-yellow spines. A low-maintenance, drought-tolerant plant, it is popular for rock gardens, xeriscaping, and as a potted houseplant. Although it is considered endangered in its native Mexico, the golden barrel cactus is widely available from cultivators.
Care for golden barrel cactus
Caring for a golden barrel cactus is relatively simple, as it is well-adapted to arid environments.
Light
Outdoors: Plant it in a sunny spot that receives full sunlight to partial shade. While it can handle intense sunlight, provide some shade during the hottest parts of the day in very warm climates to prevent sunburn.
Indoors: Place the cactus in the brightest, sunniest location possible, such as a south-facing window, for at least six hours of direct sun daily. If natural light is limited, a grow light can be used.
Soil
Golden barrel cacti require very well-draining soil to prevent root rot.
Use a pre-made cactus or succulent potting mix. Alternatively, create your own by combining equal parts perlite, coarse sand, and potting mix.
Ensure the pot has ample drainage holes.
Water
These cacti are highly sensitive to overwatering.
From fall to spring, water infrequently, allowing the soil to completely dry out between waterings.
During winter, simulate drought conditions by not watering at all.
In the spring and summer growing season, water more regularly (about once per week for indoor plants), but still allow the soil to drain completely.
Fertilizer
The golden barrel cactus is not a heavy feeder and can thrive without regular fertilization.
During the growing season (typically spring and summer), you can fertilize once a month with a balanced, diluted liquid fertilizer formulated for cacti and succulents.
Avoid fertilizing during the dormant winter period.
Repotting
Because it is a slow-growing plant, repotting is only necessary every few years.
When repotting, use thick gloves and choose a pot only one or two inches larger than the old one.
It is best to repot during the growing season (summer).
Appearance and growth
Growth habit: The golden barrel is perfectly spherical in its youth, eventually becoming more oval or barrel-shaped as it matures. It can grow up to 3 feet tall and wide. Its ribs help it expand to store water during periods of rainfall.
Spines: The cactus is covered in a dense array of sharp spines that are a vibrant golden-yellow color. These spines provide shade and protection.
Blooms: Mature golden barrel cacti may produce a ring of 2-inch wide, bright yellow flowers at their crown in late spring or summer. It may take up to 15 years for the plant to begin blooming, and it is less common for indoor plants to flower due to lower sunlight intensity.
Variations: A crested variety of the golden barrel, known as the Crested Golden Barrel (Echinocactus grusonii forma cristata), is also available. It exhibits a crested growth pattern that forms fan-like shapes.
