Identifying and Caring for a Ferocactus latispinus

A central Minnesota grower acquired several unnamed cacti from a floral shop. The first appears to be Ferocactus latispinus ssp. latispinus. General cactus care applies: well-draining soil (2:2:1 peat moss, turface/perlite/sand, sterilized potting soil), pots only 1 inch wider than the plant, shallow roots, and thorough watering only when soil is completely dry.

Repot every 1–2 years. After repotting, wait 3–4 days before watering. Acclimate to outdoor sun gradually in summer to prevent sunburn. For winter, either keep in a sunny window with minimal water, or induce dormancy: stop watering by late September, move to a cold (above freezing), dark room by late October, and ignore until March. Gradually resume watering in spring. This dormancy often yields better blooms.

All cacti are succulents, but not all succulents are cacti—ensure your care matches the plant type. Use tongs or newspaper for spiny specimens.