Barrel cactus

Columnar-shaped succulent cactus 2-10 ft. tall and 18-33 in. in diameter with showy orange, yellow or red flowers in a ring upon its top, blooming July to September. Occurs on deep sandy desert soils, often of igneous and limestone origin, on gravelly slopes, wash margins and alluvial fans in desert grassland, desert shrub habitats, oak woodlands and grasslands; up to 6,000 ft. elevation. Frost sensitive; fire resistant. Appearance varies through its broad geographical and elevational range. Extensively used as a xeriscape ornamental in landscaping. Cattle and other animals consume the flesh when the spines are removed by disturbances such as wildfire. Javelina, mule deer, numerous birds and small mammals browse the large yellow sour fruits. Caterpillar host of moth Cactobrosis fernaldialis.