Blue Barrel Cactus (Ferocactus glaucescens) - 10 seeds

This species is found within the numerous limestone hills and boulders at several locations in the state of Hidalgo, Mexico. It has been noted to favor the more northern slopes, and the plants are well associated with the rocky, juniper woodland community, up to around 1200 m in elevation. This Ferocactus stands out from the other species. The spines are rather neatly distributed, and the unusual-looking white fruits are unmistakable. Though it can reach over 45 cm in diameter, it will nonetheless flower perfectly well in an 20 cm pot. It can be a very neat, compact and attractive addition to any collection.

HOW TO GROW?

These cacti will easily grow from seeds and some from cuttings. Seeds can be sown in the spring or summer in well-drained pots of soil for cacti. Sow the seeds thinly on top. Cover them with a bit of fine quartz grit. Moisten and lay a piece of glass across the top. The pots should be set in a warm greenhouse until they start to sprout, after which the glass should be progressively removed so they can receive full light and air. It isn't good to keep the glass over the seedlings. The well developed seedlings can be planted separately in small pots. Cuttings made from pieces of the stem of any size can be detached and laid aside for a few days to allow a protective "skin" to form over the cut. They can then be planted in pots. Place them in a spot where they'll receive sun, and do not water until the soil becomes fairly dry. After a while the soil can be moistened regularly, but never kept constantly saturated.