Bring bold desert style to your space with Ferocactus latispinus. Its ribbed barrel form and dramatic red spines create an instant statement on a desk, shelf, or sunny balcony. This cactus thrives on bright light and infrequent watering—ideal for busy plant lovers. Add it to a minimalist interior or modern office for a clean, architectural look that lasts for years.
Common Name: Devil's Tongue Barrel Cactus, Crow's Claw Cactus
Botanical Name: Ferocactus latispinus
Arabic Name: صبار فيروكاكتس لاتي سباينوس
Family: Cactaceae
Ferocactus latispinus is a species in the genus Ferocactus, which comprises approximately 30 species of barrel-shaped cacti. It belongs to the Cactoideae subfamily and the Cacteae tribe within the Cactaceae family.
This cactus is native to central and southern Mexico, primarily found in high-altitude volcanic plains and mountainous slopes between 1,000 and 2,400 meters above sea level.
It features a globular, flattened barrel-like body with a distinctive blue-green or grayish-green skin. The plant has 13 to 21 sharp-edged, deep ribs. It is most recognized for its formidable central spines which are broad, flattened, and hooked at the end, often appearing in vivid red or translucent yellow. It produces funnel-shaped, purple or cream-yellow flowers in late autumn or early winter.
In cultivation, this slow-growing cactus typically reaches a height of 10–12 inches (25–30 cm) and can spread to a diameter of 14–16 inches (35–40 cm) as it matures.
Thrives in full sun or very bright indirect light. For indoor placement, it should be positioned near a south-facing window to receive at least 6 hours of direct sunlight. Insufficient light can lead to stretching and loss of spine color.
Extremely drought-tolerant. Use the "soak and dry" method: water thoroughly only when the soil is completely dry. In winter, during its dormant phase, reduce watering significantly or stop entirely to prevent root rot.
Requires a very porous, mineral-rich, well-draining cactus or succulent mix. A combination of potting soil with a high percentage of perlite, pumice, or grit is essential to ensure moisture does not sit at the roots.
Prefers warm temperatures between 20°C and 30°C. It is somewhat frost-hardy for short periods (down to -4°C) if the soil is kept completely dry. It thrives in low-humidity environments.
Apply a diluted, low-nitrogen cactus fertilizer once or twice during the spring and summer growing months. Do not fertilize in the winter.
Very low maintenance. Aside from ensuring proper light and drainage, the plant requires almost no attention. No pruning is necessary.
Primarily propagated by seeds. Germination requires warm temperatures and high light levels. It rarely produces offsets, making seed propagation the standard method for this species.
Susceptible to root and stem rot if overwatered. Pest issues may include mealybugs and scale, which often hide between the ribs or around the spine clusters.
Perfect for desert-themed landscapes, rock gardens, and minimalist interior design. Its striking architectural form makes it a popular choice for collectors and as a statement piece for offices and desks.
While the plant is not chemically toxic to humans or pets, its large, hooked spines are extremely sharp and can cause significant physical injury. It should be handled with heavy-duty gloves and kept out of reach of children and animals.
Bring bold desert style to your space with Ferocactus latispinus. Its ribbed barrel form and dramatic red spines create an instant statement on a desk, shelf, or sunny balcony. This cactus thrives on bright light and infrequent watering—ideal for busy plant lovers. Add it to a minimalist interior or modern office for a clean, architectural look that lasts for years.
Common Name: Devil's Tongue Barrel Cactus, Crow's Claw Cactus
Botanical Name: Ferocactus latispinus
Arabic Name: صبار فيروكاكتس لاتي سباينوس
Family: Cactaceae
Ferocactus latispinus is a species in the genus Ferocactus, which comprises approximately 30 species of barrel-shaped cacti. It belongs to the Cactoideae subfamily and the Cacteae tribe within the Cactaceae family.
This cactus is native to central and southern Mexico, primarily found in high-altitude volcanic plains and mountainous slopes between 1,000 and 2,400 meters above sea level.
It features a globular, flattened barrel-like body with a distinctive blue-green or grayish-green skin. The plant has 13 to 21 sharp-edged, deep ribs. It is most recognized for its formidable central spines which are broad, flattened, and hooked at the end, often appearing in vivid red or translucent yellow. It produces funnel-shaped, purple or cream-yellow flowers in late autumn or early winter.
In cultivation, this slow-growing cactus typically reaches a height of 10–12 inches (25–30 cm) and can spread to a diameter of 14–16 inches (35–40 cm) as it matures.
Thrives in full sun or very bright indirect light. For indoor placement, it should be positioned near a south-facing window to receive at least 6 hours of direct sunlight. Insufficient light can lead to stretching and loss of spine color.
Extremely drought-tolerant. Use the "soak and dry" method: water thoroughly only when the soil is completely dry. In winter, during its dormant phase, reduce watering significantly or stop entirely to prevent root rot.
Requires a very porous, mineral-rich, well-draining cactus or succulent mix. A combination of potting soil with a high percentage of perlite, pumice, or grit is essential to ensure moisture does not sit at the roots.
Prefers warm temperatures between 20°C and 30°C. It is somewhat frost-hardy for short periods (down to -4°C) if the soil is kept completely dry. It thrives in low-humidity environments.
Apply a diluted, low-nitrogen cactus fertilizer once or twice during the spring and summer growing months. Do not fertilize in the winter.
Very low maintenance. Aside from ensuring proper light and drainage, the plant requires almost no attention. No pruning is necessary.
Primarily propagated by seeds. Germination requires warm temperatures and high light levels. It rarely produces offsets, making seed propagation the standard method for this species.
Susceptible to root and stem rot if overwatered. Pest issues may include mealybugs and scale, which often hide between the ribs or around the spine clusters.
Perfect for desert-themed landscapes, rock gardens, and minimalist interior design. Its striking architectural form makes it a popular choice for collectors and as a statement piece for offices and desks.
While the plant is not chemically toxic to humans or pets, its large, hooked spines are extremely sharp and can cause significant physical injury. It should be handled with heavy-duty gloves and kept out of reach of children and animals.