Devil's Tongue Cactus
The Devil’s Tongue cactus gets its name from its large, flat, and hooked spines. These strange-looking and colorful spines make the cactus a great addition to any succulent collection.
As a special treat, it grows bright, purple flowers during the warmer seasons. You’ll be looking forward to its brilliant bloom every year.
Botanical name: Ferocactus latispinus
Other names: Devil's tongue barrel cactus
Devil's tongue cactus in a 1 gallon container
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Devil's Tongue Cactus Appearance
Devil’s tongue cactus is a small barrel cactus that can grow to 3 feet tall and 2 feet wide.
It has a round shape with deep ribs that are vertical to create a star shape when viewed from above.
Blue-green stems that turn gray-green when given lots of sunlight.
Bright pink-yellow spines are several inches long, adding visual interest even when the cactus is not blooming. The spines are flat and hooked at the end.
Showy, funnel-shaped purple flowers at the crown of the cactus.
Followed by small, round fruits that contain seeds.
Devil's Tongue Cactus Landscaping Tips
The Devil’s tongue cactus is a great plant to add to a succulent collection. It’s not a very common plant that has a distinct appearance.
It only grows to about 3 feet tall and 2 feet wide, so it’s suitable for a smaller yard or for container planting.
Attracts pollinators such as bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds when in bloom.
Very heat and drought-resistant. Low-maintenance. Grows very few offsets throughout its lifetime.
Devil's tongue cactus for sale at the nursery
Devil's Tongue Cactus Origin
Desert regions in Mexico and the Southwest, USA
Devil's Tongue Cactus Care
Caring for the devil’s tongue cactus is easy and is similar to caring for the typical cactus. The main issue is overwatering.
Soil: Loose, well-draining soil that is lightly fertile.
Temperature: Can withstand temperatures down to 32 degrees Fahrenheit.
Water: Occasional, deep watering. Allow the soil to completely dry out between waterings. Either use a moisture meter or stick your finger through the soil to gauge the moisture level. It’s better to err on the side of underwatering than overwatering.
Sun: Full sun. Partial shade is ok in Palm Springs region.
Devil's Tongue Cactus Problems
Pests: Minimal pests that include mealybugs and spider mites.
To remove mealybugs, use insecticidal soap or apply rubbing alcohol directly to the area of infestation using a cotton swab.
To remove spider mites, use horticultural oil for crawlers and insecticidal soap for mites of all stages.
Whenever using any kind of pesticide, be aware that it can damage the plant if the temperatures are in the 80s or above.
Fungal diseases from root rot, dry rot, and harsh weather conditions.
Signs of overwatering: Drooping, squishy texture (especially an the bottom of the cactus)
Signs of too little water: Shriveling, drying skin
Signs of too much sun: Burning, scarring, fading color
Signs of too little sun: Etiolation, discoloring
Devil's Tongue Cactus Propagation
Propagate devil’s tongue cactus via seeds once it grows fruit. Plant in well-draining, moist soil.
FAQ
How much does Devil's Tongue Cactus cost?
At our nursery, devil’s tongue cactus costs $45 for a 5-gallon container, $120 for a 15-gallon container, and $250 for a 24” box.
Prices are subject to change. Please contact us for the most up-to-date information on pricing. We may have larger sizes available. We provide installation services locally at a separate cost.
Does Devil's Tongue Cactus tolerate cold temperatures?
Protect devil’s tongue cactus from below-freezing temperatures (32ºF or lower) to keep it healthy.
Can I grow Devil's Tongue Cactus inside?
Yes, it can be grown indoors as long as it gets full sun and warm temperatures, perhaps in a sunroom.
SUMMARY
| SIZE (H X W) | 3 feet X 2 feet |
|---|---|
| FLOWER COLOR | Orange/Yellow |
| FLOWER SEASON | Spring to Summer |
| EXPOSURE | Full Sun |
| WATER | Low |
| GROWTH RATE | Slow |
| HARDINESS | 32º F, USDA Zone 10 |
| PRUNING | None |