Echinocactus Grusonii – Golden Barrel Cactus

Echinocactus grusonii is a magnificent barrel cactus, often called Mother-in-Law’s Pillow or Mother-in-Law’s Cushion. It is deeply ribbed, each of which is covered in creamy yellow spines. Woolly white hairs grow on the crown and cup-shaped, vivid yellow flowers may form on mature plants. An all round spiky ball of fun.

Golden Barrel Cactus is easy to look after, but they do need plenty of bright light.

Horty Hints

Stop the Rot! Allow your cactus’ soil to completely dry-out between waterings as excess water can lead to root rot.

Summertime Sadness? A little extra moisture wouldn’t go amiss during summer months.

Shade-Seeker! Your Golden Barrel Cactus may suffer in the sunlight. For best results, find a location with a lot of bright indirect light.

Light

Echinocactus grusonii needs lots of bright, indirect light. Some sun now and again will be of some benefit, but avoid harsh sunlight as this may scorch the plant.

Watering

Allow the top of your Golden Barrel Cactus’ soil to dry-out before re-watering. Do not overwater as this can lead to waterlogged roots and rot.

Temperature

This cactus is happy anywhere between 10-27°C. Avoid cold draughts as these can create unwanted temperature fluctuations which might shock the plant.

Humidity

The Echinocactus grusonii is a typical desert-dweller and prefers drier air, so avoid typically steamy locations like the bathroom and kitchen.

Feed

Boost with a high potassium fertiliser during the summer months.

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Height & Growth Rate

The Golden Barrel Cactus is a very slow-growing plant which usually reaches an ultimate height of around 50 to 60cm.

Toxicity

This plant is non-toxic, however the spines are sharp. Please take care when handling and do not consume.

Origin

Echinocactus grusonii is native to Central Mexico.

Please note: images show how this plant may look at various stages of maturity. The size you choose may look different.

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