Golden Barrel Cactus
Echinocactus grusonii
Spherical cactus covered in golden-yellow spines, also called mother-in-law's cushion. Very slow-growing — a 30cm specimen may be 10+ years old. Eventually produces a ring of small yellow flowers around the crown.
Best rooms for golden barrel cactus
Light requirements
Thrives on a sunny windowsill with several hours of direct sunlight.
How to care for golden barrel cactus
Full direct sunlight is essential — a south-facing windowsill is ideal. Water every 3-4 weeks in summer, allowing the compost to dry completely between waterings. No water at all from November to March. Use very gritty cactus compost. Feed once or twice in summer. Minimum 5°C.
Watering
Let the compost dry out completely between waterings. Roughly every 2–4 weeks.
Propagation
- Seed (extremely slow)
Toxicity
This plant is not known to be toxic to cats or dogs.
Common problems
- Elongation from insufficient light
- Root rot from winter watering
- Corking at the base (natural with age)
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