Echinocactus grusonii - Golden barrel cactus

Echinocactus grusonii is a well known species of cactus endemic to east-central Mexico. It is rare and critically endangered species in the wild. The cactus grows in volcanic rock on slopes at altitudes around 1,400 metres (4500 feet). Growing as a large, roughly spherical globe, Echinocactus grusonii may eventually reach over 1 metre in height after many years. The generation lifetime is estimated to be 30 years.