[7] Nathaniel Lord Britton and Joseph Nelson Rose later reclassified the species under the genus Ferocactus in 1922, creating the current combination.

Ferocactus viridescens reaches its northern limit at the San Luis Rey River in Oceanside and the neighboring parts of Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton.

[10][11] Its preferred habitat varies, as it inhabits elevations ranging from sea level to 200 meters (656 feet), in coastal, mild-winter microclimates as well as warmer, inland areas that may experience autumn or winter frosts.

[citation needed] Habitats where Ferocactus viridescens may be found include chaparral, arid hills, dry and grassy dunes, or rocky coastal bluffs and sun-baked cliffs; cacti especially thrive along the Californian and Mexican west coasts, as they experience significant fog cover (marine layer) throughout the year, notably in the mornings and evenings, allowing the plants to absorb sufficient moisture before the heat of the day.

This habitat, which is more moist compared to its usual xeric environment, is unusual for the plant, and may occur sporadically during years of excessive precipitation in the area.

[citation needed] This plant, which is hardy down to 5 °C (41 °F), must be grown under glass in temperate regions, though it may be placed outside in a sheltered spot in the warm summer months.