For cactus fans today we want to bring you the Ferocactus latispinus, you know him? It is a plant native to Mexico, but it is found all over the world.
If he is unknown to you and you would like to find out, we have prepared a file for you in which you can find out what his characteristics are and the care he will need. Shall we start?
Contents
How is the Ferocactus latispinus
Ferocactus latispinus is also known as Devil’s Tongue (or devil’s tongue). It is a cactus that has a rounded shape (they are called globular), but at the top it is flat. Its size is medium, reaching 40 centimeters in height (and also in width) at maturity.
In its natural habitat, it is found in dry areas or grasslands, as well as in bushes or even in forests, rocky slopes, coastal areas or even along roadsides.
The priority color of this cactus is grayish green but depending on the light it gives it, it can be a more intense green or a more intense gray. Its body is divided into ribs and these have woolly areoles.
Regarding its spines, it has four main ones, the central ones, which are distinguished from the others by the red color they take on. However, they are not the only ones, as it has other smaller radials. Even so, It is one of the cacti that will have the most thorns, so to handle it you have to be very careful.
Ferocactus latispinus is not a rare plant, far from it. It is very easy to find it. Although that doesn’t mean cactus lovers don’t want to have one in their collections.
With luck, and always in the months of October to December, it will flower. These flowers can be white, red, blue or even purple. They will measure approximately 3.5 centimeters. And best of all, you don’t have to wait until the specimen is fully grown to see its flowers. (contrary to what happens with other cacti). By the time it reaches about 15 centimeters in diameter, you can expect it to flower. These usually have a bit of a scent, which is quite pleasant.
And, after that, comes the fruit, which is usually elongated and rounded. It can measure between 2.5 and 8 centimeters. Inside you will find the seeds, which are small and dark brown (almost black).
Care of Ferocactus latispinus
After learning a little more about Ferocactus latispinus, Would you like to have one and take good care of it? Well, here we leave you what are the most important cares that you must control so that they last you for many years (and grow until you are an adult). We already warned you that it is very easy to get it.
location and temperature
Ferocactus latispinus is a cactus. It is clear to us. And as such, it needs sun. The best location for it is therefore outdoors, and more particularly in direct sunlight. It must be exposed to a large amount of daily light (between 6 and 8 hours minimum, if not more, better).
Regarding temperature, Ferocactus latispinus has no problem with heat (and high temperatures). But not so much the lows. Indeed, when the cactus is young it is more delicate, and when it drops below 7-8°C, it does not normally resist if you do not protect it. In the case of adults, they can already withstand -5ºC.
Also, you should keep in mind that this cactus hibernates. To do this, the drop in temperature and the increase in humidity combine, which causes it to acquire a red or orange tint, but also weakens it in the face of bad weather.
Substrate
The best substrate you can provide for Ferocactus latispinus is rich in nutrients and with good drainage. For example, the one that many experts recommend is silica sand and leaf mulch. But another option is cactus soil with perlite or orchid soil.
Irrigation
During the months of spring to October, the Ferocactus latispinus needs water. Not the rest of the year. For this reason, irrigation should be concentrated during these months, but without overdoing it. First, make sure the soil is completely dry before watering. If this is the case, you can add water but never wet the cactus, less if it is in full sun. It is best to pour the water around so that the roots are not submerged in water.
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As for fertilizer, in spring and summer, an extra nutrient will make it grow faster. Therefore, try to add one that is low in nitrogen.
Now this is not necessary. If the plant has a good substrate and you changed it that same year, then The best thing is that you don’t give it fertilizer because you can saturate it and make it sick.
Size
Size? In a cactus? It’s not so much pruning, because he really has nothing to prune. But many have doubts about whether cactus thorns can be cut. These have the function of protecting your body, so that if they did not have it, animals, insects, etc. they could make a dent in it.
If there is no problem where you have them and you don’t like the thorns too much (especially if they are very long), yes, they can be cut. Even if it wouldn’t really be a cactus anymore.
Plagues and diseases
Ferocactus latispinus is a plant that resists pests well, especially if you comply with all the above care. This means that if he is attacked, he will defend himself and you will hardly notice the effects. Now, who are your enemies? More precisely: the red spider, the mealybug and the aphid. These three must be watched because, although they can attack it and the plant defends itself, it is worth giving it a helping hand.
As far as diseases are concerned, perhaps the most important is rot.
Multiplication
In the case of the propagation of Ferocactus latispinus, the best (and most effective) method is through seeds. These are harvested in autumn or winter and can be planted in spring, when the temperature is already warmer and there is no frost. You have to put them in a nursery and then plant them in pots. (only when the seedlings already have a good root).
As you can see, Ferocactus latispinus can be a great addition to your cactus collection. Would you like to cheer up with one?