Are you looking for a stunning addition to your home or garden that's both low-maintenance and visually striking? Look no further than the blue barrel cactus, also known as 'Ferocactus glaucescens,' a vibrant member of the Ferocactus genus!  

It is a slow-growing cactus that looks like something out of this world! This bluish-green globular or rounded barrel cactus is usually solitary and covered in clusters of long, light-yellow spines. And get this: barrel cactus grows up to 22 inches tall and 20 inches in diameter! As it matures, it becomes columnar but still maintains its well-marked and slightly wavy ribs. 

The blue barrel cacti's crown is where all the magic happens—from spring to late summer, funnel-shaped yellow flowers are followed by round white fruits. And let's not forget about its fancy Latin name, "glaucescens," which means somewhat glaucous, basically referring to its stunning grey-blue coloration.

This blue barrel cactus has a similar barrel-shaped body to golden barrel cactus, but the main difference is the bluish-green color of the blue barrel cactus. Don't let its exterior fool you - this blue cactus is surprisingly easy to care for and can even thrive in less-than-ideal conditions.  

So, let's get started and discover why Ferocactus glaucescens is such a beloved houseplant!

Watering Needs 

Like all cacti, the blue barrel cactus is drought-tolerant by nature, and its spherical, water-storing stems can hold a lot of water.  However, their root structure is easily susceptible to overwatering, so make sure that you don't overwater, as it can lead to root rot and fungal infections.  

When the Ferocactus species is dormant in the winter, water it less, soaking it completely.  In spite of the right watering frequency, cactus roots can be damaged if the soil is not fast-draining.  Let the soil dry out thoroughly between waterings. 

Light Requirements 

Like many other cacti, the blue barrel cacti also require bright, direct sunlight to thrive.  These cacti require at least six hours of strong light each day to survive, although partial shade in the afternoon is often preferable, especially in hotter climates where the plant might become stressed by the intense heat of the afternoon sun.  

If you are growing Ferocactus glaucescens indoors, it is important to provide it with as much bright, indirect light as possible. You may need to supplement with grow lights to ensure that the plant receives enough light to grow healthy and thrive. If you are growing the plant outdoors, be sure to place it in a location where it will receive plenty of direct sunlight throughout the day. 

It's crucial to place your blue barrel away from any areas with constant direct sunlight, as doing so could result in burned foliage.  

Optimal Soil & Fertilizer Needs 

The blue barrel cactus likes very airy, porous, nutrient-rich soil with a pH of 5.6–6.7. Cacti require fast-draining soil that dries completely between waterings. Your soil must have a sandy texture and a low water-holding capacity, just like desert soil. Soggy, wet soil can damage your cactus and contribute to bacterial and fungal rot. In addition, because of a lack of oxygen, soggy soil substitutes air pockets with water, resulting in an anaerobic environment that can kill your plant. 

 As an alternative, you can create your own potting mix by combining equal portions of perlite, coarse sand, and good natural potting soil. Ideally, you want to use our specialized potting mix that contains organic mycorrhizae to promote the development of a strong root system that helps your cactus thrive.

Natural fertilizers with an equal amount of 5-10-5 (NPK) are the best choice, as they last longer and keep your soil alive by adding other beneficial compounds and microbes that encourage plant health and nutrient absorption. So, skip those harsh chemicals and give your cacti some love with a good natural fertilizer! 

Hardiness Zones & More 

Typically grown in hot, arid desert regions, the blue barrel cactus thrives indoors in warm, dry surroundings. Remember, if the blue barrel cactus is exposed to frost, it may suffer damage or even die. 

If you live in USDA regions 9 to 11, you can also grow these cacti outdoors year-round, as they are very cold- or frost-tolerant, so you should plant them outdoors or put them in a pot and move them indoors during the winter if the temperature drops below 25 F.

Keep your blue barrel away from cold, drafty windows and air vents if you are growing it indoors in a cold climate.  

Be sure to add Ferocactus glaucescens - blue barrel cactus, to your collection today and elevate the beauty of your home or garden with this stunning-looking plant.