Fishhook Barrel Cactus

The Fishhook Barrel Cactus, Ferocactus wislizeni, is native to the desert Southwest. The cactus gets it's name from the rows of fishhook shaped spines that adorn the sides.

They can get over 6 feet high, but they are slower growers. Photo of a really tall barrel cactus coming soon.

Orange or yellow-orange flowers cover the tops of the plant in late summer, followed by yellow fruit, filled with small, shiny, black seeds. Desert animals love to eat the fruit and by doing so, they spread the seeds.

This cactus is well known for it's ability to store water. In a survival situation, it is possible to use the water, but it would take a long, sharp knife or hatchet to get past the hard spines.

The Fishhook Barrel Cactus is a great addition to the desert Southwest landscape or xeriscape. Drought and heat tolerant. Full sun.

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