The Ferocactus wislizenii, or Arizona Barrel, is one of the 30 species found within the genus. The Arizona Barrel has the most attractive flowers in my view, so I have several, along with four others from the genus. All the other Ferocactus species I have produce yellow flowers, so when the F. wislizenii blooms in late summer I’m quite happy.Cacti in the Ferocactus genus are all barrels, but some can become cylindrical with age. They are found in the Southwest and northwestern Mexico. This genus must have maximum sun exposure and can survive for very long periods without water, making it completely carefree in a xeriscape desert garden.
Most folks are more familiar with the F. cylindraceus (Compass Barrel) because of its growth habit. It slants toward the south to get the most sun exposure, so the south side grows faster than the north side, giving the cactus a characteristic tilt. Some believe that it twists itself out of the ground doing this, but that’s untrue. It just makes a good story for tourists.
13 comments:
Interesting post and lovely photo. Don't think the cacti would be happy here today as it's pouring with rain :o( Happy GTS
It always amazes me the beautiful colours of the flowers from cacti,they are so bright and vivid, i presume that because they are only open for a short time they have to attract pollinaters quickly.
Like the picture underneath with the spiral pattern.
Cheers Mark
Great photo shot.
I've got a mystery weed (with bee) posted for Green Thumb Sunday. Perhaps you can identify it.
That's a very pretty flower. Lovely photography as well. I agree that cactus' often have beautiful and colorful flowers.
Here's what a Transformer is, in reference to your comment on my blog.
We love the picture. Have a great GTS.
It's fun to see a garden in such a different climate than my own -- very informative post too! As to how many fruit the zucchini will produce -- I have no idea. I too have heard the tales of too many to eat and no one to take them. I have 4 plants in the one container and so far each has born one zucchini. Check back tomorrow for a zucchini posting which I have been putting off because they're not looking as good as they did in the beginning!
great pics, thanks for stopping by my blog!
Beautiful cactus flowers.
I think it is so great that you are a desert landscaper.
I have much to learn about succulents and catus, so I will be visiting you site often.
Thanks
Cool blog. I don't know why I've never noticed it on my GTS rounds but I'm glad I did. I love C&S plants.
Those are so beautiful! Cactus blooms are always fascinating to me, because , as stated above, the climate is so different!
Thanks for your nice comments on my blog! And these flowers? They're very nice! They look almost like strawflowers to me, are they soft or feathery? Either way, very pretty! Happy GTS! :)
What an unusual and vibrant plant. Your post is very interesting and informative. I have enjoyed reading it.
Sara from farmingfriends
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