Sun: full sun to partial shade
Water: Below average watering needs for a succulent
Temperature: Zone 9b from 25° F to 30° F (-3.9° C to -1.1° C) to Zone 11b from 45° F to 50° F (7.2° C to 10° C)
Winter Survival: Not cold hardy
Propagation: seeds
Flower: from early spring to late summer
Flower Type: Red, Yellow
Toxic: Generally non-toxic to humans and animals
Dormant: winter
Space Requirement: Indoors & Outdoors
Common Problems: Plants may rot if overwatered, pests
Where to buy Ferocactus Pilosus?
Basc Care for Ferocactus Pilosus
Watering
What you need to remember is that this type of succulents needs to be watered for every 2 weeks
You can water your succulent more than often in extreme conditions but make sure that the soil is completely dry before watering your succulent again.
Fertilizing
Only feed this succulent during its active growing seasons which means winter. Use the right fertilizer applied in the right amounts. Applying half-strength balanced fertilizer every month or so is recommended for optimal results.
Do not fertilize during winter as the plant is dormant.
Sun & Location Requirements for "Mexican Lime Cactus, Fire Barrel, Mexican Fire Barrel, Mexican Fire Barrel Cactus"
Ferocactus Pilosus needs full sun to partial shade in order to thrive. While this variety needs plenty of bright light, it is important not to place it in direct sunlight for extended periods of time as this can cause damage or scorching to the leaves and stems. A shadier spot with indirect light could be just what "Mexican Lime Cactus, Fire Barrel, Mexican Fire Barrel, Mexican Fire Barrel Cactus" needs.
As per this succulent profile, it is only able to stay healthy when the environment temperature is above the range of zone 9b from 25° F to 30° F (-3.9° C to -1.1° C).
When temperatures drop below freezing, it is important to take precautions to protect Ferocactus Pilosus from the cold. Insulating and providing adequate drainage for the plant are key elements in helping it survive winter weather. Wind and sun exposure should also be minimized to prevent frost damage.
Any succulents in the group will need a medium space to grow. You can place your pot at your table or window. Since this plant needs more space than mini succulents, you should consider do not plant them together with other succulents/plants.
Ferocactus Pilosus also benefits from some indirect light throughout the day as well, so make sure you give it enough space to soak up light without becoming too exposed to heat.
Propagation
Ferocactus Pilosus can be propagated from seeds. Signs of a good seed is one that is plump, dark in color and slightly sticky. To propagate X from seed, one must prepare a soil mixture of well-draining potting mix, sow the seeds evenly and lightly press them into the surface. Lastly, gently water the soil using a spray bottle and place the container in bright but indirect light.
Toxicity
Ferocactus Pilosus is not known to pose any significant health risks, as it is not considered to be toxic. However, it is best to keep the plant away from young children and pets, as they may ingest some of the parts of this plant that could contain toxins which can cause mild skin irritation.
Pests and Diseases
Ferocactus Pilosus can be affected common pests and diseases like most of the other succulents such as mealybugs and Red spider mites.
If you do spot any of pest signs, you can treat your succulent using below methods.
- Mealybugs: quarantine, clean infected plants, soapy water.
- Red spider mites: Quarantine, clean your infected plants, treatment with a systemic insecticidal/soapy water.
Besides that, to prevent serious health issues from happening, keep your succulent in a well-ventilated area and check it regularly for any signs of pests or health problems.