The behavior of the Barrel Cactus is one of the most satisfying ones in that the blossoms eventually appear. When the plant is mature enough (several years) it bears a reef of brilliant yellow, orange, or red flowers at its summit. The flowers usually bloom during late spring or summer, and the fruits are small and pineapple-like. Interestingly, in the past, these cacti have been utilized by the native people as a food source as well as an emergency hydration source, even though the contents contained in these cacti are very bitter and alkaline, which compose the water.