Fishhook Barrel Cactus Plant Care

Ferocactus wislizeni (Engelm.) Britton & Rose

Ferocactus wislizeni, the fishhook barrel cactus, also called Arizona barrel cactus, candy barrel cactus, and Southwestern barrel cactus, is a species of flowering plant in the cactus family Cactaceae, native to northern Mexico and the southern United States. It is a ball-shaped cactus eventually growing to a cylindrical shape, with spiny ribs and red or yellow flowers in summer.

🌵Succulents🌵Cacti
Water

Every 14–21 days

Light

Full sun

Temp

50–100°F

Humidity

10–40%

What Is the Fishhook Barrel Cactus?

Fishhook Barrel Cactus (Ferocactus wislizeni) belongs to the Cactaceae family within the Ferocactus genus. Fishhook Barrel Cactus is native to northern Mexico and the southern United States. Fishhook Barrel Cactus is also known as Arizona Barrel Cactus, Fishhook Cactus, Wislizenus' Barrel Cactus.

Fishhook Barrel Cactus displays a solitary barrel-shaped growth habit, reaching up to 3 inches tall with a spread of approximately 2 inches. Fishhook Barrel Cactus produces bright yellow to red funnel-shaped blooms.

Leaf size: approximately 0 inches.

How Often Should You Water a Fishhook Barrel Cactus?

Ferocactus wislizeni requires watering every 14–21 days. Allow the top layer of soil to dry between waterings to prevent root rot. Reduce watering frequency during winter when growth slows.

Watering Frequency

Every 14–21 days

Let soil partially dry between waterings

What Light Does the Fishhook Barrel Cactus Need?

Fishhook Barrel Cactus thrives in full sun light conditions. The optimal light range is 4000–6000 lux. Avoid placing Fishhook Barrel Cactus in direct, harsh sunlight for extended periods, as this can scorch the foliage.

Light Requirement

Full sun

4000–6000 lux

What Temperature and Humidity Does the Fishhook Barrel Cactus Prefer?

Ferocactus wislizeni grows best at temperatures between 50°F and 100°F. Fishhook Barrel Cactus prefers humidity levels of 10–40%.

Temperature

50–100°F

Humidity

10–40%

What Soil Mix Works Best for a Fishhook Barrel Cactus?

Sandy, well-draining cactus mix with perlite and coarse sand. Good drainage is essential for Fishhook Barrel Cactus to prevent waterlogging, which leads to root rot and fungal issues.

How Do You Repot a Fishhook Barrel Cactus?

Repot every 2-3 years in early spring. Choose a pot one size larger than the current container, and ensure it has drainage holes to allow excess water to escape.

How Do You Propagate a Fishhook Barrel Cactus?

Fishhook Barrel Cactus can be propagated through seeds.

Fertilizing

Every 8 months

During the growing season

Is the Fishhook Barrel Cactus Toxic to Pets and Children?

Non-Toxic

Non-toxic to humans and pets

What Pests and Diseases Affect the Fishhook Barrel Cactus?

Fishhook Barrel Cactus is susceptible to scale insects, spider mites. Inspect the foliage regularly, especially along leaf undersides and stems. Treat infestations promptly with insecticidal soap or neem oil to prevent spread.

What USDA Hardiness Zone Does the Fishhook Barrel Cactus Need?

Fishhook Barrel Cactus grows outdoors in USDA Zone 12a. Native to northern Mexico and the southern United States, Fishhook Barrel Cactus is adapted to warm climates. In cooler regions, grow Fishhook Barrel Cactus as a houseplant or bring it indoors before the first frost.

Hardiness Zone

Zone 12a

Keep exploring plants

Fishhook Barrel Cactus is one of many species covered in the complete plant care and identification guide, which groups plants by genus, attribute, and popularity.

It belongs to the Ferocactus genus — compare its care with other Ferocactus species on PlantoScan.

Fishhook Barrel Cactus thrives in bright light and direct sun — see other bright-light plants.

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