Mexican lime cactus facts for kids

Quick facts for kids Mexican lime cactus
Scientific classification

The Ferocactus pilosus, also known as the Mexican lime cactus or Mexican fire barrel, is a cool type of cactus found in North America. It gets its name from its bright red spines, which can look a bit like fire! This cactus is a true survivor of the desert.

A close-up of the Ferocactus pilosus showing its growing tip.

Where the Mexican Lime Cactus Lives

This special cactus grows only in one place: the Chihuahuan Desert. This desert is a huge, dry area located in northeastern Mexico.

You can find the Mexican lime cactus naturally in several Mexican states. These include Coahuila, Durango, Nuevo Leon, San Luis Potosí, and Tamaulipas. It's a native plant to these regions, meaning it has lived there for a very long time.