

Meet the plant
A golden ball of spines for a sunny spot
Echinocactus grusonii (also listed as Kroenleinia grusonii) · also known as Golden barrel cactus, golden ball cactus, mother-in-law's cushion
Native to Central Mexico
A slow-growing, globe-shaped cactus with neat ribs lined in golden spines. Over many years it can grow into a large, eye-catching barrel.
- A round, ribbed cactus covered in bright golden spines, in a 12cm grow pot.
- Very little water needed: once every two weeks in summer and far less in winter.
- A striking, sculptural plant for your sunniest window or a dry, sunny garden bed.
Where it thrives
The best spot in your home
Your sunniest window, ideally north-facing, with at least 6 hours of bright light. Outdoors it wants full sun and soil that drains fast.
Care card
- Light
- Full sun
- Water
- Every 2 weeks in summer
- Humidity
- Dry
- Temperature
- 5 to 35°C, no frost
- Soil
- Cactus mix
- Feeding
- Twice in summer
- Growth
- Very slow, globe
- Outdoors
- Yes, full sun
Care made simple
Your first weeks together
- Wear thick gloves or wrap it in folded newspaper when handling: the spines are extremely sharp.
- Put it in your brightest spot and wait a few days before the first drink.
- Water every two weeks in summer, much less in winter, and never leave it standing in a tray of water.
Plant doctor
If you see this, do this
- Soft, brown baseRoot rot from wet soil. Let it dry out fully and water far less, especially in winter.
- Pale or stretched topNot enough light. Move it to a sunnier spot, slowly, to avoid sunburn.
- Yellow or white patches on the sunny sideSunburn after a sudden move. Shift it gradually into stronger sun.
Questions
Good to know
What size will I receive?
What size will I receive?
A cactus in a 12cm grow pot. Every plant is unique; the photo shows the size to expect.
Can it live indoors?
Can it live indoors?
Yes, by your brightest window with at least 6 hours of strong light a day.
Is it safe to handle?
Is it safe to handle?
Handle it with care: the spines are extremely sharp. Keep it where children and pets won't brush against it.
Packed to arrive alive
4.94 out of 5 from 1114 reviews
We ship living plants across South Africa every week. This is what our customers say when the box arrives.
Our unboxing test: a plant box after a rough courier trip
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★★★★★
“Even after 7 days packed, the plants arrived in perfect condition - perky and happy for their new homes.”
Review on Scindapsus Aureus Devils Ivy · Nov 2023
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★★★★★
“All plants were sent beautifully packaged and arrived safely to Durban by courier.”
Review on Hoya Carnosa Krimson Princess · Aug 2025
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★★★★★
“I can't believe how beautifully my plants were packed. I received 5 and none was damaged!”
Review on Dracaena Compacta · Apr 2026
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★★★★★
“I ordered 3 plants, they were all bigger than the photo and delivered in great condition. Highly recommended.”
Review on Jade Money Plant Variegated · Sep 2025