Echinocactus
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Echinocactus is a genus of large and beautiful barrel-shaped cacti, usually with large spines and small flowers. Additional species used to be included in the genus but now the number is reduced to six. They thrive on plenty of sun.
A well known species is Echinocactus grusonii from Mexico which is popularly known as the Golden Barrel Cactus. It may reach over a meter in height. Its ribs are numerous and pronounced and the spines are long and yellow. Small yellow flowers appear around the crown of the plant only after many years. It is considered easy to grow and relatively fast growing.
The following genera are considered synonyms to Echinocactus:
References
- Innes C, Wall B (1995). Cacti, Succulents and Bromeliads. Cassell & The Royal Horticultural Society.
- The species list is referenced from [cactiguide.com] which is in turn referenced from several books which are listed on that site. The principal book listed there is The Cactus Family by Edward F. Anderson, (2001).
Image:Echinocactus polycephalus.jpeg|Echinocactus polycephalus
Image:Echinocactus grusonii kew.jpg|Echinocactus grusonii
image:Echinocactus grusonii spineless form.jpg|Echinocactus grusonii spineless form
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