Sclerocactus johnsonii aka Johnson's Barrel Cactus

Sclerocactus johnsonii is a small cactus known as Johnson's beehive cactus. It belongs to the cactus family, Cactaceae. Some sources name it Echinomastus johnsonii or Ferocactus johnsonii. Its range spans southeastern California, southwestern Utah, and northwestern Mexico. It also grows in Nevada and Arizona. Its home includes Mojave scrub and the Sonoran Desert's upper edge. There, it grows on rocky slopes and gravel hills. These dry sites have soil that contains limestone.

The plant forms an egg-shaped or short, barrel-like stem. Stems measure about 0.33–0.82 feet (0.10–0.25 metres) tall. They reach 0.23–0.49 feet (0.07–0.15 metres) across. Most plants grow alone rather than forming clumps. Damage to the growing tip can cause branching. A dense mesh of spines almost hides the stem. The crown has a woolly patch with few spines. Narrow, wavy ribs run down the stem, with raised tubercles. Most stems have 18–21 ribs, though some have only 13.

Each areole bears 13–24 spines that spread and cross. Their shades range from grey to pale yellow. Pink, red, lavender, or maroon tints may also appear. Older spines can turn black. Each areole has four to nine central spines. These grow straight or curve slightly, but never form hooks. Nine to sixteen radial spines spread around them. Spine and flower colours vary across the plant's range.

The funnel-shaped flowers open from March through May, sometimes in February. They span about 0.13–0.25 feet (0.04–0.075 metres) across. The tepals can be yellow, pink, or magenta. They have a silver sheen and maroon marks near their bases. The stigma lobes range from yellowish white to green. Fruits develop from April through June. They start green and turn tan as they dry. Each round or oblong fruit opens along one lengthwise split. The seeds have small bumps and a fine, pitted surface.

This cactus poses a challenge in cultivation on its own roots. It needs excellent drainage and rots with ease. Growers often graft it onto frost-hardy stock. This does not establish the cactus's own frost tolerance. Grafting also helps speed growth and preserve plants in collections. Seed raising is difficult because only a small share germinates. The supplied sources give no firm hardiness range. They also provide no evidence of food uses or toxicity.