Devil's Tongue

Plant Type: Cacti
Plant Height: 1-2 feet
Spread: 1-2 feet
Flower Color: yellow
Sun Exposure: Full Sun, Partial Shade

Devil's Tongue Barrel Cactus (Ferocactus latispinus) – A Striking Desert Beauty for Arizona Landscapes

The Devil's Tongue Barrel Cactus, scientifically known as Ferocactus latispinus, is a visually stunning species native to Mexico. This cactus is recognized for its distinctive long, flattened central spines that curve outward, resembling a devil’s tongue, hence its name. It's an ideal choice for desert gardens and xeriscaping projects in Arizona due to its ability to thrive in hot, dry climates.

Key Features of the Devil's Tongue Barrel Cactus:

• Compact and Striking Form: This cactus typically grows to 1 to 2 feet in height and spread, making it a perfect focal point in small gardens, rock gardens, or container displays.
• Unique Spines: The most striking feature of the Devil’s Tongue Barrel Cactus is its long, flattened red or purple spines, which curve dramatically outward from its round, ribbed body. These spines provide the cactus with both a dramatic appearance and protection from predators.
• Colorful Blooms: In late fall or early winter, the cactus produces large, funnel-shaped flowers in shades of yellow or pink, creating a beautiful contrast against its spiny exterior. These blooms add seasonal interest and attract pollinators to your garden.

Perfect for Arizona Xeriscaping and Rock Gardens

Adapted to arid desert conditions, the Devil's Tongue Barrel Cactus thrives in full sun and well-drained soil, making it a low-maintenance and drought-tolerant addition to Arizona landscapes. Its compact size and unique appearance make it an excellent plant for xeriscaping, rock gardens, and succulent gardens.

• Drought-Tolerant: Like most desert cacti, it requires minimal watering, with the soil needing to dry out completely between waterings.
• Cold Hardy: Unlike some cacti, Ferocactus latispinus can tolerate brief periods of cold, making it suitable for areas with cooler winter nights.

Why Add the Devil’s Tongue Barrel Cactus to Your Arizona Garden?

• Visually Striking: Its unique curved spines and bold shape make it a standout specimen in any garden.
• Low Maintenance: Ideal for gardeners seeking an easy-care, drought-tolerant plant that can thrive in full sun and minimal water conditions.
• Seasonal Blooms: The vibrant flowers add an unexpected burst of color to your garden in fall and winter, offering seasonal interest.

Care Instructions:

• Sunlight: Full sun exposure is ideal for promoting healthy growth and maintaining the cactus’s spiny structure.
• Watering: Water sparingly, allowing the soil to dry completely between watering, especially during the dormant winter months.
• Soil: Use well-draining cactus soil to prevent root rot and ensure optimal growing conditions.

The Devil’s Tongue Barrel Cactus is a low-maintenance, drought-tolerant plant perfect for adding drama and desert beauty to Arizona gardens. Its long spines, colorful blooms, and unique form make it a must-have for cactus enthusiasts and xeriscape designs.

Three Timbers Installation Guide (Feel Free to Follow): Devil's Tongue Barrel Cactus (Ferocactus latispinus)

Planting Guide:

• Location: Full sun (at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily for optimal growth)
• Soil: Well-drained, sandy or rocky soil (slightly acidic to neutral soil preferred)
• Spacing: Space plants 3-4 feet apart to allow for their full size and growth
• Planting Depth: Plant at the same depth as the root ball, ensuring the top of the root ball is level with the surrounding soil surface
• Support: Devil's Tongue Barrel Cactus requires no staking and grows in a spherical shape with spiny ribs

Watering Guide:

Watering After Planting:

• Initial Watering: Water thoroughly immediately after planting to saturate the root ball and surrounding soil
• Frequency: Water every 3-4 days for the first 2-3 weeks to help establish the root system
• Watering Amount: Provide 1-2 inches of water per session for deep watering

When is the Plant Established?

• Timeframe: Devil's Tongue Barrel Cactus is considered established after 3-4 months when the roots have spread into the surrounding soil

Watering Once Established:

• Summer: Water every 14-21 days during the hotter months. If temperatures exceed 100°F, increase watering to every 10-14 days. Provide 2-3 inches of water per session.
• Winter: Water every 4-6 weeks during the cooler months, depending on rainfall.

Drip Irrigation Setup:

• Placement of Emitters: Place the drip emitters 12-18 inches away from the base of the cactus to ensure deep watering
• Flow Rate: Use emitters with a flow rate of 1-2 gallons per hour for slow, deep watering
• Number of Emitters: 1 emitter per plant for even watering distribution
• Adjusting Frequency: In summer, increase watering to every 10-14 days. In winter, reduce watering to every 4-6 weeks