Ferocactus hamatacanthus aka Texas Barrel Cactus

Ferocactus hamatacanthus is a barrel cactus in the cactus family. Gardeners also call it Texas barrel cactus or Turk's head. Its native range starts in southeastern New Mexico and western Texas. It extends into eastern and central parts of Mexico. The plant grows in deserts and dry scrub. Much of its habitat lies within the Chihuahuan Desert. It grows among shrubs, in rock cracks, and on limestone plateaus. It also occurs in valleys and near wooded mountains.

This succulent has a stout stem with a rounded shape. As it ages, the stem can become long or cylindrical. Its colour ranges from dark green to grey-green. Most plants grow as a single head. Injury can cause the stem to branch into several heads. Some plants form small groups without prior damage. The spines vary in number, width, and angle across its range. Mature plants usually reach 0.3–2 feet (0.1–0.6 metres) tall. Their usual width is 0.3–1 foot (0.1–0.3 metres). LLIFLE records rare stems near 3 feet (0.9 metres) tall.

Yellow flowers open from summer into autumn. They supply nectar and pollen in the plant's dry habitat. Fruits form after flowering, and wildlife eats the fruits and seeds. The fruits range from greenish to reddish. They have scales but lack spines. Their flesh is juicy, with a slippery texture. Both fruits and seeds are edible, though yields are small. PFAF gives the plant a low food-use rating. It does not recommend eating the stem.

PFAF places this cactus in USDA hardiness zones 8–10. That range applies to gardens with a dry climate. Its small size suits rock gardens and collections of desert plants. The rounded stem and spines give it value as an ornamental. PFAF reports no weed concern. The supplied species evidence gives no firm pest or disease details. Spines pose a handling hazard, so use tools when needed. Harvest must follow local law and avoid harm to plants.

PFAF also records past uses in local and Indigenous remedies. People applied the pulp to burns, wounds, and insect bites. They also used it on the skin for pain. Roots and stems featured in remedies for urinary and gut complaints. These records describe traditional use rather than proof of benefit.