{"product_id":"devils-tongue-ferocactus-latispinus","title":"Devil's Tongue 'Ferocactus latispinus'","description":"\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"auto\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eThe Devil's tongue, also known as \u003c\/span\u003e\u003ci data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"auto\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eFerocactus latispinus\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/i\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"auto\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e is a unique and eye-catching species of barrel cactus in the \u003c\/span\u003e\u003ci data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eFerocactus\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/i\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"auto\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e genus! \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"201341983\":0,\"335559739\":160,\"335559740\":259}' data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"auto\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eWith its prickly red spikes sticking out like a tongue, it's hard not to do a double-take when you come across this spiky wonder. But don't let its common name fool you – this plant is totally friendly and perfect for any type of gardener, whether they're an experienced green thumb or just starting out.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"201341983\":0,\"335559739\":160,\"335559740\":259}' data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"auto\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eThis devil's tongue plant blooms in autu\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"auto\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003emn and early winter and lasts for about two weeks, \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"auto\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003ewhich is one of the reasons it is a popular plant. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"auto\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eTh\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"auto\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003ee funnel-shaped flowers are simply stunning, with rich hues of rose, purple, mauve, and purple-blue, and their eye-catching flower buds stand out against the plant's green foliage. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"201341983\":0,\"335559739\":160,\"335559740\":259}' data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"auto\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eNative to the Southwestern united states, this form of devil's tongue cactus, with its cylindrical or spherical shape, can reach heights of up to 6.6 ft and boasts an impressive array of spines that start out bright red before maturing into a striking gray color. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"201341983\":0,\"335559739\":160,\"335559740\":259}' data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"auto\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eBut those spines aren't just for show – they actually serve multiple purposes like radiating excess heat, collecting moisture from the environment, and protecting the plant from pesky predators who might want to take a bite out of this beauty. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"201341983\":0,\"335559739\":160,\"335559740\":259}' data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"auto\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eThese cacti are slow-growing, especially at the start of new growth. If well taken care of, they have healthy growth. This solitarily growing cactus can be propagated from seeds and stem cuttings.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"201341983\":0,\"335559739\":160,\"335559740\":259}' data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"auto\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eThe fruit of Ferocactus plants, including Devil's Tongue, is generally edible and has a sweet, juicy flavor. The fruit is typically red or yellow when ripe and the fruits can be eaten raw or cooked. However, the fruit is covered in spines and can be difficult to harvest. In addition, some people may be allergic to the fruit or experience digestive issues after eating it. While the fruit is edible, it is not commonly consumed and is not widely available in stores.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"201341983\":0,\"335559739\":160,\"335559740\":259}' data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"auto\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eSo, if you're looking for new plants or something fun and exciting to add to your garden collection, look no further than the devil's tongue barrel cactus -\u003c\/span\u003e\u003ci data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"auto\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eFerocactus latispinus!\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/i\u003e\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"201341983\":0,\"335559739\":160,\"335559740\":259}' data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003e\n\u003cb\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"auto\"\u003eWatering Needs\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"201341983\":0,\"335559739\":160,\"335559740\":259}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"auto\"\u003eDesert plants, such as cacti, are adapted to grow with minimal water. Devil's tongue store water throughout their stems, and as a result they are one of the ultimate drought-resistant plants.  Cactus are like Camels; they drink up a lot of water quickly and then can last a long time before needing water again.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"201341983\":0,\"335559739\":160,\"335559740\":259}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"auto\"\u003eIn comparison to an older plant, a young devil's tongue cactus will require a bit more water and attention. During the growing season, which is between early spring and autumn, water them once every two or three weeks. Its watering requirements drastically decrease to once a month in the winter when temperatures drop.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"201341983\":0,\"335559739\":160,\"335559740\":259}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"auto\"\u003eAs a general rule, water the plant only after the top layer of soil has completely dried out. If the \u003c\/span\u003e\u003ci\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"auto\"\u003eFerocactus\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/i\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"auto\"\u003e doesn't receive enough moisture for an extended period of time, discoloration, pale stems, and browning can occur, leading to stunted growth. In contrast, overwatering can cause root rot and fungal infection.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"201341983\":0,\"335559739\":160,\"335559740\":259}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003e\n\u003cb\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"auto\"\u003eLight Requirements\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"201341983\":0,\"335559739\":160,\"335559740\":259}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"auto\"\u003eThe devil's tongue needs a lot of sunshine - either full sun or partial shade. If you're starting with a new plant that you recently bought from a nursery, don't expose it to too much direct light all at once. Gradually increases its exposure to bright light so that it doesn't get burned by the intense rays.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"201341983\":0,\"335559739\":160,\"335559740\":259}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"auto\"\u003eWhen grown in full sun, the foliage of the devil's tongue plant turns almost grayish-green, and the cactus spines turn a reddish-brown, which adds a lot of interest to your outdoor space.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"201341983\":0,\"335559739\":160,\"335559740\":259}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"auto\"\u003eKeep an eye on your plant's leaves - if they start looking burnt, consider investing in a sunshade or moving it somewhere shadier. And guess what? You can even grow these beauties indoors! Just make sure to position them near southern and western windows for optimal sunlight exposure.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"201341983\":0,\"335559739\":160,\"335559740\":259}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"auto\"\u003eDon't leave them languishing in dim light though - move them outdoors from time to time when natural light is scarce (like during winter). With proper care and attention paid to their light requirements, this barrel cactus is sure to be a statement piece wherever they grow!\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"201341983\":0,\"335559739\":160,\"335559740\":259}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003e\n\u003cb\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"auto\"\u003eOptimal Soil \u0026amp; Fertilizer Needs\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"201341983\":0,\"335559739\":160,\"335559740\":259}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"auto\"\u003eThe devil's tongue prefers sandy, well-drained soil, as excess moisture in dry soil can promote root and stem rot. Planet Desert specializes in cactus and has \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"none\"\u003especialized cactus potting soil\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"auto\"\u003e that includes an organic substrate with mycorrhizae to help with the growth of a healthy root system to help your cactus thrive. As an okay alternative, you can create your own potting mix by combining equal portions of perlite, coarse sand, and good natural potting soil.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"201341983\":0,\"335559739\":160,\"335559740\":259}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"auto\"\u003eAnd let's not forget about fertilizing! Your cactus only needs a tiny bit applied once a year in springtime with a natural organic fertilizer that has lower doses of NPK (5-10-5). No harsh chemicals here, folks - just pure, natural goodness that lasts longer and encourages nutrient absorption, so your blooming cactus stays happy as a clam. Remember, excessive fertilizer can cause fungal infections.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"201341983\":0,\"335559739\":160,\"335559740\":259}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"auto\"\u003eSo, go ahead and give your little guy some love with a good natural fertilizer because when it comes to soil and fertilizers, through experience, we know what works best!\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"201341983\":0,\"335559739\":160,\"335559740\":259}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003e\n\u003cb\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"auto\"\u003eHardiness Zones \u0026amp; More\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"201341983\":0,\"335559739\":160,\"335559740\":259}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"auto\"\u003eThe adorable devil's tongues are not frost-hardy and can thrive in warm and humid conditions, making them perfect for cozy indoor spaces.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"auto\"\u003e It can be grown outdoors in USDA zones 10–11.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"201341983\":0,\"335559739\":160,\"335559740\":259}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"auto\"\u003eIn cooler zones, it can be kept outdoors during the heat pack in the summer and brought in as the temperature drops. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003ci\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"auto\"\u003eFerocactus latispinus\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/i\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"auto\"\u003e typically becomes dormant when temperatures drop below 50 °F.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"201341983\":0,\"335559739\":160,\"335559740\":259}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"auto\"\u003eDuring dormancy, the plant's roots will stop growing and conserve its energy until temperatures warm up again. It is important to avoid overwatering the plant during dormancy, as this can lead to root rot.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"201341983\":0,\"335559739\":160,\"335559740\":259}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"auto\"\u003eWe think you will love this plant – order your very own \u003c\/span\u003e\u003ci\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"auto\"\u003eFerocactus latispinus\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/i\u003e\u003cspan data-contrast=\"auto\"\u003e devil's tongue today and start enjoying its beauty in no time!\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-ccp-props='{\"201341983\":0,\"335559739\":160,\"335559740\":259}'\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Planet Desert","offers":[{"title":"4\" Pot","offer_id":53303498473783,"sku":"pfq1791981026597","price":11.71,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"1 Gal.","offer_id":53303498506551,"sku":"job1791981026598","price":30.02,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"2 Gal.","offer_id":53303498539319,"sku":"ade1791981026599","price":57.43,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0992\/1619\/5895\/files\/devils-tongue-ferocactus-latispinus_1.jpg?v=1791981032","url":"https:\/\/slideonwear.shop\/products\/devils-tongue-ferocactus-latispinus","provider":"My Store","version":"1.0","type":"link"}