Echinocactus polycephalus
- Common name
- Cottontop cactus
- Taxonomy
- Family: Cactaceae · Genus: Echinocactus
Still missing: plant type, native distribution, natural habitat, height / growth form, flowering period, growth & dormancy period.
Tips & experience from members
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How members water it
Not enough logs yet: at least 3 plants with regular watering logs are needed (now: 0). Waterings logged in Care feed this – anonymised and aggregated.
How it thrives
No monthly schedule is shown because cultivar-/species-level data is not yet sufficient. The general values above are guidance only.
Echinocactus tip: Slow growing; the golden barrel only flowers once it reaches 30–40 cm across.
Cottontop cactus – what to know
Cottontop cactus (Echinocactus polycephalus) – family: Cactaceae, genus: Echinocactus. Care guidelines: light: full sun; water: low; min. 5 °C. It is not known to be toxic to cats or dogs.
All Echinocactus species in the catalog →Detailed toxicity data →
Frequently asked questions
How often should I water Cottontop cactus?
Sparingly: let the soil dry out completely between waterings, and water even less in winter.
How much light does Cottontop cactus need?
It needs plenty of direct sun – the sunniest window, or outdoors in summer, suits it best.
How cold can Cottontop cactus get?
Keep it above 5 °C – it is frost-tender and needs a frost-free spot in winter.
Is Cottontop cactus toxic to cats and dogs?
It is not known to be toxic to cats or dogs.
When does Cottontop cactus flower?
According to the general guideline for the genus Echinocactus: Typical flowering time: June, July.
What members’ data shows
When does it really bloom?
No blooms logged yet. If yours flowers, your data will be the first!
Average watering interval
Not enough watering logs yet. Waterings logged in the care hub feed this chart.
Questions about this species
Echinocactus
Care data is for guidance only.

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