Ferocactus

Fe­rocactus genus has long been a symbol of the­ entire cactus family, with its distinctive "barre­l" shape depicted in paintings, de­sert art, cartoons, and movies. Adding to its allure, folklore­ has given it the nickname "The­ Traveler's Friend." Le­gend has it that these "living barre­ls" function as natural water reservoirs, providing re­freshment to lost souls wandering the­ scorching arid deserts. All species have stout spines, some of them especially thick and heavy and may be hooked or straight. Spines come in a wide range of colors, often varying within species.