Looking for a stunning addition to your garden that's both low maintenance and visually striking? Look no further than the Golden Barrel Cactus or golden ball cactus, known as  Echinocactus grusonii, a vibrant member of the Echinocactus genus! 

The Golden Barrel cactus is a slow growing species that is covered with sharp golden spikes that catch the light in the most beautiful way. And get this, it has up to 35 ribs when it reaches maturity - each rib is covered in long yellow or white spines. And it's not just tough on the outside; it has an impressive lifespan of 100 years if given optimal conditions. At maturity, it can reach up to 3 feet in diameter and shows off deep ribs that add character and interest to its already stunning appearance.  

But wait, there's more! After about 15 years of growth (yes, patience is key here), small yellow blooms may appear around its crown-like tiny sunflowers reaching for the sky. So, if you're lucky enough to have a mature specimen of Golden Barrel Cactus - Echinocactus grusonii in your garden, then keep an eye out for those gorgeous yellow flowers that come in the summertime! 

Watering Needs 

Watering your barrel cactus is important, especially during its first season in a new planting container. These cacti need infrequent watering, and you should not water them until the soil is dry down to about 1.5 inches. Make sure you check the soil before watering, as these cacti do not like to be waterlogged or soggy.  

When the cactus is dormant in the winter, water it less, soaking it completely.  Despite the right watering frequency, cactus roots can be damaged if the soil is not fast draining.   

Light Requirements 

If you're looking to grow a healthy and thriving round cactus plant, you'll need to provide it with plenty of bright, indirect light. If you are growing your barrel cactus outdoors, make sure that it receives at least six hours of direct sunlight per day. Potted indoor plants require four hours of direct sunlight, which can be achieved by locating them on a sunny south or west-facing windowsill. 

Optimal Soil & Fertilizer Needs 

Like many other cacti, Barrel cactus favor sandy, well-drained soil because the plants can promote root and stem rot. Planet Desert specializes in Cactus, and we Have a specialized cactus potting mix that will help your cactus thrive. As an alternative, you can create your customized potting mix by combining equal portions of perlite, coarse sand, and potting soil. 

Organic or 100% natural fertilizers 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 cactus some love with a good natural fertilizer! 

Hardiness Zones & More 

Golden barrel cactus is one of the hardiest cacti around, tolerating cold temperatures down to 25° F. They can be grown outdoors in USDA zones 9-11 and can survive low winter temperatures for short periods as long as the compost is not wet. Echinocactus are fantastic plants for adding interest and excitement to the garden, and the Barrel cactus is no exception - with her gorgeous yellow flowers that are sure to stand out!  A well-drained potting mix with drainage holes in the potting container will help you maintain temperatures and prevent too much moisture. 

Echinocactus grusonii needs adequate ventilation but not humidity or frost. So, avoid areas with extremely humid climates or low, "airless" areas of your home. 

Bloom Season	Mid summer
Botanical Name	Echinocactus grusonii
Common Name	Golden barrel cactus
Dormancy	Winter
Family	Cactaceae
Flower Color	Yellow
Genus	Echinocactus
Growth Habit	Flat-topped globe
Growth Habit	Globular
Growth Rate	Slow
Hardiness Zone	9, 10, 11
Mature Size	4 ft. tall, 3 ft. wide
Native Area	Eastcentral mexico
Native Area	Mexico
Plant Type	Perennial cactus
Propagation	By seeds, offsets
Resistance	18° f
Resistance	Drought tolerant, heat resistance, pest resistance, disease resistance
Soil PH	6.5, Acidic, Neutral
Soil Type	specialized cactus potting soil
Special Features	Unique appearance, showy flowers
Sun Exposure	Full sun, partial shade
Toxicity	Mild toxic to humans, pets(Keep away from children)
Watering Needs	Low