The Golden barrel cactus is the most popular barrel-type cactus planted in Inland Empire landscapes and gardens. It grows with 20-40 pronounced vertical ribs, spherical shape and colorful blond to golden colored spines. It often reaches 18-30 in. in dia.; older plants will grow larger as well as produce offsets that result in clumps containing several plants growing 5-6 ft. across.

Golden barrel cactus is native to central Mexico where it is well adapted to warm and sunny climate conditions and periods of extended drought. In landscapes and gardens it needs good soil drainage to avoid rotting and will grow quicker when provided with monthly summer water. It is widely used in containers, for mass plantings and as an accent feature around rocks.