The Barrel Cactus, which also falls in the genus Echinocactus and Ferocactus, is a classic image of the American Southwest. With a ribbed and cylindrical shape, as well as its formidable spines, it is a survival master, described as a desert treasure. This cactus can flourish in the heat, unlike most of the other plants, which cannot survive because of the heat. It absorbs huge amounts of water in the fleshy pulp. Eventually, it may grow many feet tall, and usually bends to the south to shield its tender growing point against the hot, direct midday sun.