Ocotillo Cactus 25G

Ocotillo Cactus in 25-Gallon Pot available in Jupiter, FL.

Sculptural, spiny, and utterly captivating—the Ocotillo Cactus (Fouquieria splendens) in a 25-gallon pot brings the wild elegance of the desert to South Florida’s sun-loving spaces. With tall, wand-like canes that stretch skyward and burst into fiery red blooms after rain, this striking xeriscape plant offers year-round architectural interest with a burst of seasonal brilliance.

Though it looks like a cactus, the Ocotillo is a drought-adapted deciduous shrub, making it a unique and conversation-worthy specimen for modern landscapes, rock gardens, and container displays.

Care & Growing Info (Adapted for South Florida):

• Sunlight: Loves full sun. Place in a bright, open location with at least 6–8 hours of direct sunlight daily. The more sun it gets, the stronger its growth and bloom cycle.

• Watering: Extremely drought-tolerant once established. Water deeply but infrequently—allow soil to dry out completely between waterings. In South Florida’s rainy season, ensure excellent drainage to avoid root rot.

• Soil: Requires sharp-draining, sandy or rocky soil. In pots, use a cactus mix or blend of coarse sand, pumice, and organic matter. Avoid heavy, moisture-retentive soils.

• Fertilizer: Light feeders. Use a diluted cactus fertilizer once in spring and again in summer. Overfeeding can lead to leggy growth or root issues.

• Growth Habit: Upright and open, with multiple canes that can reach 6–10 feet tall in a 25-gallon pot. In-ground, it may grow taller. Bare during drought, but will leaf out and bloom after rain—typically with vibrant red tubular flowers that attract hummingbirds.

• Temperature: Hardy in USDA Zones 8–11. Ocotillo thrives in South Florida’s sun and warmth but prefers dry air. Ensure it’s planted in a breezy, well-ventilated area. Protect from frost.

• Maintenance: Practically no maintenance needed. Prune only to shape or remove dead stems. Dropping leaves during dry spells is normal—new foliage returns quickly with rain or watering.

Ideal For:

• Xeriscape and rock garden design

• Modern, minimalist landscapes

• Drought-tolerant container gardens

• Wildlife gardens (hummingbird magnet!)

• Southwestern or desert-style focal points

Plant Classification:

• Scientific Name: Fouquieria splendens

• Plant Type: Deciduous desert shrub (often mistaken for a cactus)

• Class: Dicot

• Growth Form: Upright, spiny canes with seasonal blooms

• Container Size: 25-gallon pot (mature specimen)

Jupiter Farms & Nursery