Ferocactus is the classic barrel cactus of the North American deserts, a ribbed, rounded body armed with bold, often colorful hooked spines. The heavy spination is the show, catching light like a halo, and the plant's sculptural form only improves as it ages.

It wants all the sun you can offer, a gritty cactus mix, and infrequent, deep watering with the soil drying completely between; nearly dry in winter is right. Keep it from frost and repot rarely; a snug pot suits it fine.