Ferocactus fordii: A Pint-Sized Cactus with Massive Presence
Don’t let its small size fool you – the Ferocactus fordii may be petite, but it packs a serious punch of personality! This charming little barrel cactus from Mexico is sure to win your heart with its quirky looks and easy-going nature. Get ready to be captivated by its ferocious spines, flashy flowers, and laid-back attitude.
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About Ferocactus fordii
The Ferocactus fordii is a small, single-stemmed barrel cactus that typically grows up to 16 inches tall and 12 inches wide, though it occasionally offsets and forms little clusters. Its flattened globe shape is covered in about 21 thick ribs armed with around 15 whitish radial spines each. But the real showstoppers are the 4 heavy-duty central spines, including one extra-long, ringed, flattened spine that curves downward dramatically.
In summer, this feisty fellow rewards you with gorgeous purple, pink or orange flowers up to 4 inches across. Two subspecies exist – the straight-up fordii and the slightly different borealis.
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44 Types of Ferocactus Cacti [With Pictures]
Growing Ferocactus fordii
Light
The Ferocactus fordii thrives in full, direct sunlight throughout the year. Provide at least 6 hours of bright sunshine each day. If growing indoors, place in a sunny, south or west-facing window. During winter when sunlight is limited, supplement with a grow light positioned 6-12 inches above the cactus for 12-14 hours per day.
Water
This cactus needs plenty of water during its active growing season in spring through fall. Allow the soil to fully dry out before watering again thoroughly. Be careful not to get the cactus body wet when watering, as a wet cactus in direct sunlight can lead to sunburn, scarring, fungal infections or even death. In winter when dormant, keep the soil completely dry but water lightly if the cactus starts shriveling.
Soil
Choose a well-draining, somewhat rich soil mix for the Ferocactus fordii. A quality cactus/succulent potting mix is ideal. Or make your own by combining 2 parts potting soil, 2 parts coarse sand or perlite, and 1 part small pebbles or grit. Good drainage is essential.
Fertilizer
Feed the Ferocactus fordii in early spring with a balanced, low-nitrogen fertilizer made for cacti and succulents. Avoid over-fertilizing.
Temperature and Humidity
Ferocactus fordii prefers average indoor temperatures of 65-80°F during the day and cooler 50-65°F at night. It can tolerate light frosts down to around 25°F, but protect from hard freezes. Low humidity levels of 40% or less suit it well.
Pests and Problems
Otherwise hardy if cared for properly, potential issues include rot from overwatering, sunburn, mealybugs or spider mites. Avoid wetting the cactus body in sunlight.
Pruning
Pruning is rarely needed beyond removing unsightly dead, damaged or etiolated (stretched) growth as the Ferocactus fordii matures.
Potting and Repotting
These slow-growing cacti do best with infrequent repotting. Repot every 2-3 years in early spring only if it has become extremely potbound. Take care when handling the spines and roots.
How to Propagate Ferocactus fordii
Ferocactus fordii can only be propagated from seed, as they rarely offset or produce pups. It is a slow process, but rewarding for the patient grower:
- Use a well-draining seed starting mix like 1 part potting soil, 1 part coarse sand or perlite
- Sow seeds shallowly on the surface and lightly cover with more mix
- Keep soil lightly moist but not wet
- Seeds may take several weeks or months to germinate
- Once sprouted, increase air exposure and sunlight gradually
- When large enough to handle, transplant into individual pots
- Provide bright light and careful watering to establish
With proper care, Ferocactus fordii seedlings should develop their barrel shape and spines over the first few years. Flowering may not occur until the cactus reaches 3-4 inches in diameter.