Please note, our articles may contain referral or affiliate links.
What is a Barrel Cactus
Below is a transcription of the above sign found at the Valley of Fire Visitor Center.
Barrel Cactus or Bisnaga – Ferocactus acanthodes
COMMUNITY
Mixed Cliff Semi-Scrub and Creosote Bush Scrub
HABITAT
Rocky slopes, limestone cliffs
ELEVATION
2180 to 3000 feet (700 to 1000 m)
TYPE OF SOIL
Sandy gravel
SOURCE OF WATER
Surface
BLOOMS
March-June
HEIGHT
Up to 6 feet (2 m)
POLLINATION
Insects, wind
ADAPTATION FOR SURVIVAL
Barrel stem stores moisture.
Large, shallow root system quickly absorbs water from infrequent rain and snowfall.
COMMENTS
In novel and films, barrel cactus is shown as the answer to desert thirst but the slimy alkaline juice made by mashing the pulpy flesh really is not drinkable, except in extreme emergencies.
Woodrats sometimes live in the base, gnawing at the soft tissue while protected from enemies.
Indians used needles of this cactus as awls, and to apply tattoos.
What is a Barrel Cactus
I am an outdoor enthusiast who would rather be on a backcountry backpacking trip than a stroll on the beach (although I do love the beach!).
Living in Las Vegas has afforded me the opportunity to easily explore the Southwest region of the United States.
A nature lover, I am often found at the end of the pack taking photos and videos of the wildlife found on the trails. Colorful flowers, desert animals, and unusual geological rock formations are often the majority of my photos.
Leave a Reply