A magnificent globular cactus forming a ribbed ball clad in fierce golden-yellow spines, slowly broadening with age into a glowing sphere. A prized sculptural specimen, now rare in the wild.
At a glance
- Plant type: Succulent
- Mature size: 90 cm H × 80 cm W
- Aspect: full sun
- Water: very drought tolerant once established
- Frost: tender
- Maintenance: low maintenance
- Origin: Exotic
About Golden Barrel Cactus
Botanically, Echinocactus grusonii is a slow-growing succulent in the Cactaceae family. It reaches around 90 cm tall and 80 cm wide at maturity, with evergreen foliage. Yellow flowers appear in summer.
Where to grow Golden Barrel Cactus
Golden Barrel Cactus suits arid and semi-arid, Mediterranean and warm-temperate climates and grows best in full sun. It is frost tender, so protect it from hard frosts or grow it in a sheltered spot or pot. It also is a genuinely water-wise choice and is a sought-after collector's plant.
Soil & planting
Golden Barrel Cactus does best in sandy and free-draining soil. Plant into well-prepared ground, firm the soil around the roots and water deeply to settle it in.
Watering & feeding
Golden Barrel Cactus is very drought tolerant once established, so once its roots are down it needs little supplementary water. A feed in spring with a balanced fertiliser keeps growth strong. In its first year, water deeply once or twice a week to settle the roots in, then taper off as it establishes.
Pruning & care
Prune Golden Barrel Cactus after flowering to keep it compact and encourage the next flush of blooms. Overall it is low maintenance.
Using Golden Barrel Cactus in the garden
Golden Barrel Cactus earns its place for pots and courtyard containers and a feature or specimen planting. It is equally at home in the ground or a large pot on a balcony or courtyard.
Companion planting & design
For a cohesive, low-care bed, pair Golden Barrel Cactus with other plants that enjoy the same very drought tolerant and arid and semi-arid climate. Repeat it through a border to tie the planting together and give a sense of rhythm.
Good to know
It is thorny — useful as a barrier, but wear gloves when pruning.
Buying Golden Barrel Cactus
Plant Sale lists Golden Barrel Cactus as potted plants. Stock isn't live yet — register your interest using the panel above and we'll email you the moment we have it ready.