Cactus

Barrel Cactus

Commonly refers to several species in the genus Ferocactus (and related barrel-form cacti).

Shape: Rounded to barrel
ID Feature: Strong vertical ribs, heavy spines
Habitat: Rocky slopes, bajadas, desert flats

About this plant

Barrel cacti are ribbed, globe-to-column shaped cacti common in the Sonoran Desert. They store water in thick tissue, grow prominent spines, and often develop a ring of flowers and fruit near the crown in season. Identification tips: look for their rounded to barrel shape, strong vertical ribs, and heavy spines. Older plants may lean toward the sun, and flowers and fruit often appear near the top. Barrel cacti are found on rocky slopes, bajadas, desert flats, and wash edges, thriving in full sun to partial shade depending on the site. Historically used in limited ways by Indigenous peoples for food and water in survival contexts, but harvesting is not recommended and many plants are protected. Best appreciated as a keystone desert plant and wildlife resource. Do not touch spines; avoid disturbing plants; stay on trails.

More info

Photo gallery

Fruiting barrel cactus

Barrel cactus with fruit at the crown.

Young barrel cactus

Young barrel cactus starting to rib and spine out.

Twisted rib pattern

Young barrel cactus with slightly twisted rib pattern.

Barrel by path

Barrel cactus growing near a desert path.

Barrel under tree

Barrel cactus in partial shade under a desert tree.

Fishhook spines

Fishhook barrel cactus spines (hooked central spines).

Large mature barrel (side view)

Large mature barrel cactus (side view).

Large mature barrel (full body)

Large mature barrel cactus (full body).

Cluster of barrel cacti

Cluster of smaller barrel cacti.

Quick ID Checklist

Rounded to barrel shape with strong vertical ribs
Dense spines; many species have hooked central spines
Flowers/fruit often appear near the crown in season
Mature plants can lean toward the setting sun over time

Seasonal Notes

Flowers typically appear in spring (timing varies by species and rainfall). Fruit may persist at the crown after blooming.

Uses

Historically used in limited survival contexts, but harvesting is not recommended due to extremely slow growth. Best appreciated as habitat and a seasonal food source for wildlife via flowers and fruit. Fishhook barrel cactus spines were reported to be used as actual fishhooks by indigenous peoples.

Ethics + Disclaimers

Avoid touching spines and do not disturb plants. Do not harvest wild plants; some areas protect native cacti. This site is educational and not a guide for foraging or medical use.

Wildlife Value

Flowers support native pollinators. Fruit is edible. Seeds were sometimes eaten. Fruit and plant micro-shade can benefit insects and small wildlife. Their fruit can remain on the plant for months, providing a long-lasting food source for desert wildlife.

Interesting Facts

Some barrel cacti are nicknamed "compass cactus" because mature plants often lean toward the south or southwest, reducing sun exposure during the hottest part of the day.
The hooked spines on some species can help shade the cactus body and deter herbivores.