Why Customers Love the Red Mexican Fire Barrel Cactus
• Dense, vivid red spines unlike other fire barrel varieties
• Large red flowers that attract pollinators
• Cold hardy to ~15°F once established
• Bold barrel form with architectural presence
• Low maintenance & drought tolerant
Red Mexican Fire Barrel Cactus 🔥🌵
(Ferocactus gracilis)
Add bold color and unmistakable desert drama to your landscape or container collection with the Red Mexican Fire Barrel Cactus. Prized for its intense red to reddish-orange spines and large red flowers, this striking barrel cactus delivers powerful visual impact with minimal maintenance.
With its strong form and fiery coloration, Ferocactus gracilis is a standout choice for desert gardens, xeriscapes, and statement containers.
🌵 Key Features & Growing Habits
Distinctive, Fiery Appearance 🌟
This cactus is easily recognized by its thick, densely packed reddish-orange spines, which are wider and more intense in color than many other Mexican Fire Barrel types. The ribbed, round body displays a greenish-blue to gray-green hue, creating striking contrast in desert landscapes.
Cold Hardy & Resilient ❄️
Once mature, Ferocactus gracilis can tolerate temperatures down to approximately 15°F. In colder climates, young or newly planted specimens should be protected from frost while they acclimate.
Vibrant Red Flowers & Fruit 🌺
In late spring to early summer, this cactus produces large red blooms at the crown, attracting bees, butterflies, and other pollinators. After flowering, it may produce edible fruit, enjoyed by wildlife and sometimes people.
Slow, Impressive Growth 📏
At maturity, this cactus can reach up to 5 ft tall and 3 ft wide, growing slowly over time as a solitary barrel rather than clustering.
✔️ Our 5-gallon plants ship at approximately 8" × 8"
🌿 Perfect for Desert & Low-Maintenance Gardens
🌱 Xeriscaping & Water-Wise Landscapes
Thrives in arid and semi-arid environments with minimal watering once established.
🪴 Container & Landscape Focal Point
Its bold color, strong structure, and upright form make it an excellent standalone focal plant in containers or in-ground plantings. Pairs beautifully with other cacti and succulents.
🚚 Why Choose The Cactus Outlet
🌡️ Sun & Cold Acclimated
All of our Red Mexican Fire Barrel Cacti are grown outdoors in Southern Arizona and acclimated to full sun and cold conditions, ensuring strong performance after planting.
📦 Safe & Secure Shipping
Each cactus is hand-selected and professionally wrapped and packaged to arrive healthy and ready for easy, stress-free planting. Every order includes planting, watering, and general care instructions.
