Ferocactus histrix, commonly called the candy barrel cactus, is a spherical plant in the cactus family, Cactaceae. Ferocactus histrix is native to Mexico, where it is found in the states of Aguascalientes and Durango. F. histrix grows up to 2 to 3 feet tall and 2 feet wide in diameter. The stems are typically singular and barrel shaped with yellow to gray spines. F. histrix blooms in summer with red to yellow bell shaped flowers. The flowers, fruit, and stems of this species are edible giving the plant its common name. The main stem is primarily used as livestock feed, while the delicious fruit are eaten raw or used in deserts, and the flowers are traditionally fried in oil. This species population is in rapid decline due to land loss and human over harvesting, alongside the fact that it is a slow growing plant. F. histrix grows best in full sun to partial shade while sitting in well-draining soils. Water the plant adequately during summer and keep dry during winter as it is prone to rot. Allow the soil to completely dry out in between waterings. USDA plant hardiness zones 9a to 11b. Ferocactus histrix seeds require consistent moisture and humidity to germinate, but the soil should not remain soaking wet. Cloning boxes, ziplock bags, and other containers that retain humidity are ideal to store sown pots. Use a well-draining sterilized soil mix. Seeds should be sown directly on top of the potting mixture and lightly covered with a thin layer of sand or potting mix, just enough to cover the seeds. Germinating pots should be kept indoors, out of extreme light and heat. Ideal germination temperatures range from 75°F to 85°F. Germination typically takes 2 to 4 weeks to occur. Even with optimal conditions, germination may be slow and sporadic. INTERNATIONAL SHIPPING DISCLAIMER: All packages will be shipped with basic customs information such as; HS codes, VAT numbers, and properly labeled contents. Unfortunately, The Garden of Set is unable to provide phytosanitary certificates for orders at this time. It is the buyer’s responsibility to know local laws regarding the import of plants, seeds, and plant products into their country. It is also up to the buyer to provide any other customs forms or information required to import plants into their country. If packages get stopped by customs, The Garden of Set will not be able to provide a refund for the purchase. Most of the time packages make it to their destinations just fine, this is for the small minority of packages that get stopped without having all the proper customs information required by the country of import. Purchase at your own discretion.
