Golden barrel cactus adds rugged depth to the garden

Thank Mother Nature that not all living things are as delicate as us humans. In summer, we pine for anything that cools us off — beaches, pools, lakes, and all matters of covered, artificially cooled rooms. Not golden barrel.

There's not a whole lot of mellow about the golden-yellow sphere officially known as Echinocactus grusonii, which belongs in the orbit of any gardener who desires a space light on fuss but deep with dramatic appeal. The color, texture, and shape of golden barrel lend interest, definition, and contrast to any composition. For maximum effect, group it in threes. This one has some serious spine, and it doesn't need a gallon or more of H20 for a few hours of frolicking in the sizzling sun. Sunshine, occasional soaks, and room to grow are about all it desires. It can event tolerate some frost for a brief spell.

Growing to 3 feet in a diameter in time, this eye-popping, spiny orb belongs to the barrel cactus family, which includes the closely related Ferocactus. Curiously, it also goes by the monikers of "mother-in-law's chair" and "mother-in-law's cushion."

Our colleague Tom Jesch talks in this Altman Plants video about adding ruggedness to the garden via golden barrel. We can’t recommend repurposing it as a sitting device, though. Nor is it the ideal specimen for (plant) huggers.

Say 'bello' to Echinocactus minionii