One of the largest cacti in our deserts, the Fishhook Barrel is cylindrically shaped, with prominent ribs that are densely covered with long sharp spines. The spines have two shapes, one of which looks like a fishhook. This cactus generally grows from 2 to 4 feet high with a diameter of 18-30 inches, but some can grow as tall as 10 feet.  The taller plants frequently lean toward the southwest, hence the nickname “Compass Plant.”  These cacti are slow-growing and very conservative with water.

Striking yellow-red flowers bloom from the top of the cactus, and yellow fruit, resembling a miniature pineapple, can be picked and eaten right off the plant – they carry no spines.