The Golden Barrel is one of the most iconic desert cacti, with glowing yellow spines and rounded bodies. In clusters, they form dramatic groupings that light up the landscape like golden orbs.
Water Needs: Very low; occasional deep soak in summer
Sun Needs: Full sun
Soil Requirements: Lean, sandy, sharply draining soils
Growing Zone: USDA Zones 9–11
Cold Hardiness: Down to ~20°F (–6°C)
Mature Size: 2–3 ft tall x 2–3 ft wide per plant (clusters can spread wider)
Native Origin: Central Mexico
Best Substitutes For: Hedgehog Cactus, Parodia
Landscape Uses: Desert gardens, rock gardens, sculptural accents
The Golden Barrel is one of the most iconic desert cacti, with glowing yellow spines and rounded bodies. In clusters, they form dramatic groupings that light up the landscape like golden orbs.
Water Needs: Very low; occasional deep soak in summer
Sun Needs: Full sun
Soil Requirements: Lean, sandy, sharply draining soils
Growing Zone: USDA Zones 9–11
Cold Hardiness: Down to ~20°F (–6°C)
Mature Size: 2–3 ft tall x 2–3 ft wide per plant (clusters can spread wider)
Native Origin: Central Mexico
Best Substitutes For: Hedgehog Cactus, Parodia
Landscape Uses: Desert gardens, rock gardens, sculptural accents