Origin
Ferocactus cylindraceus (Engelm.) Orcutt var. lecontei (Engelm.) H. Bravo, commonly known as "LeConte's Barrel Cactus," is a species of cactus that is native to the southwestern United States and northwestern Mexico. This plant can be found in the Sonoran and Mojave deserts, growing in rocky or sandy soils and often at elevations between 1,000 and 3,000 feet.
Common Names
Aside from "LeConte's Barrel Cactus," the Ferocactus cylindraceus var. lecontei is also known by several other common names, including "California Barrel Cactus," "Desert Barrel Cactus," and "Compass Barrel."
Uses
The Ferocactus cylindraceus var. lecontei has been used for its medicinal properties by indigenous people in the southwestern United States and northwestern Mexico. It has been used to treat insect bites, snake bites, and colds, as well as to alleviate pain and reduce fever. This plant is also used by some people for ornamental purposes in gardens and xeriscapes.
General Appearance
The Ferocactus cylindraceus var. lecontei is a slow-growing, columnar cactus that can reach heights of up to 6 feet (1.8 meters). The plant typically has a single stem that can be up to 2 feet (0.6 meters) in diameter and covered in ribs or ridges lined with sharp, hooked spines. This species produces large, yellow or orange flowers that can grow up to 3 inches (7.6 centimeters) in diameter and bloom in the late spring or early summer. The flowers are followed by large, edible fruit that are about the size of a golf ball and turn red when ripe.
Light Requirements
The Ferocactus cylindraceus (Engelm.) Orcutt var. lecontei (Engelm.) H. Bravo thrives in full sun or partial shade. It requires a minimum of 6 hours of direct sunlight every day. When grown indoors, it's best to place the plant near a south-facing window or use grow lights to provide adequate light.
Temperature Requirements
The Ferocactus cylindraceus (Engelm.) Orcutt var. lecontei (Engelm.) H. Bravo prefers warm to hot temperatures, with an optimal range between 70°F and 90°F (21°C to 32°C). It can withstand temperatures as low as 20°F (-6°C) but not for extended periods. When grown indoors, the plant should be kept away from cold drafts and heating vents.
Soil Requirements
The Ferocactus cylindraceus (Engelm.) Orcutt var. lecontei (Engelm.) H. Bravo prefers well-draining soil with a pH range between 6.5 to 7.5. It is tolerant of a wide range of soil types, but a sandy or gritty soil mix is ideal. A cactus mix containing perlite, coarse sand, and peat moss is an excellent choice for this plant.
Cultivation Methods for Ferocactus cylindraceus var. lecontei
Ferocactus cylindraceus var. lecontei, also known as LeConte's Barrel Cactus, is a slow-growing cactus that can reach up to 6 feet in height and 3 feet in diameter. To cultivate this cactus, you need to choose the right location, soil type, and pot size.
The best location for this cactus is an area that receives at least 6 hours of sunlight. It prefers hot, dry climates and can tolerate occasional light shade. Choose a pot that is a few inches larger than the cactus, and ensure that the pot has drainage holes.
The soil should be well-draining and slightly acidic. You can use a cactus mix, or create your own mix by combining sand, perlite, and peat moss. It is important to avoid overwatering, which can lead to root rot.
Watering Needs for Ferocactus cylindraceus var. lecontei
Ferocactus cylindraceus var. lecontei is a drought-tolerant cactus that does not require frequent watering. In fact, overwatering can harm the plant, so it is important to be cautious. Water the cactus deeply once every 2-3 weeks during the growing season and reduce watering during the dormant season. When in doubt, it is better to underwater than overwater this cactus.
Fertilization for Ferocactus cylindraceus var. lecontei
Ferocactus cylindraceus var. lecontei does not require frequent fertilization. You can fertilize the cactus during the growing season with a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer at half the recommended strength. Avoid fertilizing during the dormant season to prevent the risk of burning the roots and damaging the cactus.
Pruning for Ferocactus cylindraceus var. lecontei
Ferocactus cylindraceus var. lecontei does not typically require pruning. However, if you notice any dead or diseased growth, you can remove it with sterile pruning shears. Additionally, you can remove any offsets or pups that grow at the base of the cactus and replant them in a separate pot using well-draining soil.
Propagation of Ferocactus cylindraceus (Engelm.) Orcutt var. lecontei (Engelm.) H. Bravo
Ferocactus cylindraceus (Engelm.) Orcutt var. lecontei (Engelm.) H. Bravo can be propagated through several methods including seed propagation, cutting propagation and grafting.
Seed Propagation
Seed propagation is the most common method of propagating Ferocactus cylindraceus var. lecontei. Seeds can be sown indoors or directly in the ground during the growing season. Before sowing, seeds should be cleaned and sterilized to prevent fungal and bacterial infections. Seeds should be sown in well-draining soil mix and kept moist but not wet.
Seeds usually germinate within two to four weeks at temperatures above 15°C. Once the seedlings have two to four true leaves, they can be transplanted to their permanent location.
Cutting Propagation
Cutting propagation of Ferocactus cylindraceus var. lecontei is possible but it is not recommended as it can result in a weaker root system and slower growth rate than seed propagation. However, if cutting propagation is desired, it is important to use a clean and sharp knife or scissors to avoid damaging the plant.
Once a healthy stem cutting has been obtained, it should be allowed to callus over for a few days before being planted in well-draining soil mix. The cutting should be watered sparingly until new growth appears, at which point regular watering can commence.
Grafting
Ferocactus cylindraceus var. lecontei can also be propagated through grafting. This method involves attaching a cutting of the desired plant onto the rootstock of a stronger and faster-growing cactus species.
First, a clean and sharp knife or scissors should be used to obtain a healthy cutting of the plant. The rootstock should then be prepared by making a clean cut on the top of the stem. The cutting of the desired plant is then attached to the rootstock and secured with grafting tape or rubber bands.
The grafted plant should be allowed to heal and grow for a few weeks before regular watering can commence.
Disease Management
Ferocactus cylindraceus var. lecontei is generally a healthy plant with few disease issues. However, some diseases that can affect the plant include:
- Root rot: This disease is caused by overwatering or poor drainage, leading to the roots' decay. To manage this disease, ensure the soil is well-draining and avoid overwatering the plant.
- Cactus Anthracnose: This fungal disease presents as sunken, discolored lesions on the plant's stem and can cause stem rot in severe cases. To manage this disease, remove infected tissue and improve air circulation around the plant.
- Cactus scab: This bacterial disease results in raised, brown lesions on the stem and can cause the stem to rot with advanced infections. Remove infected tissue and apply a copper-based fungicide to manage this disease.
Pest Management
Ferocactus cylindraceus var. lecontei is also susceptible to some pests, including:
- Cactus bug: These bugs feed on the sap of the plant, causing it to wilt and potentially die. To manage these pests, spray the plant with neem oil or insecticidal soap.
- Cactus weevil: These beetles lay eggs on the plant, which hatch into larvae that feed on the stem's interior. To manage these pests, destroy infected plants, remove any debris around plants frequently and apply insecticide.
- Spider mite: These small pests suck the plant's sap, causing discolored leaves and webbing between the plant's spines. To manage these pests, spray the plant with a forceful stream of water or an insecticidal soap.
Regularly inspecting the plant and maintaining good sanitation practices can help prevent disease and pest issues. Isolating infected plants until they recover or destroying them can also prevent the spread of disease. Monitoring the plants' climate and providing ideal growing conditions can also prevent pests and disease from affecting the plant.
