FISHHOOK BARREL CACTUS (Ferocactus wislizeni)

FISHHOOK BARREL CACTUS
(Ferocactus wislizeni)
Best traits—Also known as Arizona barrel and candy barrel cactus, this long-lived native produces striking orange, red or yellow flowers in cycles from April through October. Eye-catching yellow fruits follow the blooms, which appear around the crown of the barrel-shaped plant. Its reddish fishhook-shaped spines glow when backlit by the sun.

Growing tips—Hardy to 5 degrees, it should be planted in full sun in well-draining soil. Little water is needed once established, but be careful not to over-water, as it is vulnerable to rot. Note: This is a protected native plant, and it is illegal to collect it in the wild.

TOOTHPICK CACTUS (Stetsonia coryne)

TOOTHPICK CACTUS
(Stetsonia coryne)
Best traits—This treelike columnar cactus with bluish-gray stems develops into an attractive specimen plant as it ages. Named after its toothpick-like spines, the night-bloomer produces tubular white flowers that remain open until early to mid-morning, from spring through summer. Large yellow fruit appears in winter; its tangy lemony rind can be eaten raw or cooked.

Growing tips—Plant in full sun in porous soil with good drainage to avoid root rot. Although hardy to 18 degrees, it is best to protect from frost to prevent scarring. Stay clear of its extremely sharp spines.

STRAWBERRY HEDGEHOG CACTUS (Echinocereus engelmannii)

STRAWBERRY HEDGEHOG CACTUS
(Echinocereus engelmannii)
Best traits—This heavily spined clumping cactus is a showstopper in March and April when large purple to magenta blossoms form on its stems. The flowers bloom for several days, closing at night and reopening in the morning. In early summer, birds flock to its reddish fruit, which is said to taste like strawberries.

Growing tips—A slow-grower, the hedgehog prefers full sun to light shade and requires excellent drainage, as it is prone to rot. However, it does need some water in order to flower. Hardy to -10 degrees, it is a good choice for containers, rocky hillsides or tucked among low-growing flowering flora.

STAGHORN CHOLLA (Opuntia versicolor)

STAGHORN CHOLLA
(Opuntia versicolor)
Best traits—From March through April, this treelike cactus puts out a slew of flowers in orange, bronze, magenta, red or lime green. Its pale-yellow fruit remains on the plant for months on end. This Sonoran Desert native draws wildlife to its fruit and branches for food and nesting. In the landscape, it makes an excellent barrier or accent plant. It is hardy to the mid-teens.

Growing tips—A good choice for rocky slopes, it does best in coarse, well-draining soil in full sun. Little water is needed once established. Keep this spiny cactus away from high-traffic areas.