Melocactus

Description

Melocactus is a genus of cacti native to the Caribbean, Central, and South America. It is known for its distinctive appearance, with a round or cylindrical shape and a large cephalium (woolly cap) on top of the plant that produces pink or red flowers. The plant has a slow growth rate, but can live for many years with proper care.

Taxonomic Information

Appearance

Melocactus can grow up to 12 inches (30 cm) tall and 6 inches (15 cm) in diameter. The plant has a spherical or cylindrical shape and is covered in spines that range in color from white to black. The cephalium, which is only found in mature plants, is a dense mass of woolly hairs that sits on top of the plant and produces pink or red flowers. The flowers are followed by small fruits that contain numerous seeds.

Care Guide

Water: Melocactus requires moderate watering during the growing season (spring and summer) and minimal watering during the dormant season (fall and winter). Allow the soil to dry out between waterings to prevent root rot.

Fertilization: Fertilize Melocactus once a month during the growing season with a balanced cactus fertilizer.

Soil: Melocactus prefers well-draining soil that is slightly acidic. Use a cactus mix or a mixture of sand, perlite, and peat moss.

Sunlight: Melocactus requires bright, indirect sunlight. Avoid direct sunlight, which can burn the plant.

Hardiness Zones: Melocactus is hardy in USDA zones 10-11.

Common Pests & Diseases

Melocactus is susceptible to mealybugs, scale insects, and spider mites. It can also be affected by root rot if overwatered. Treat pests with insecticidal soap and remove affected parts of the plant to prevent the spread of disease.

Habitat

Melocactus is native to the Caribbean, Central, and South America. It grows in rocky, well-draining soil in dry, arid regions.

Question and Answer

Q: How often should I water my Melocactus?

A: Water your Melocactus once a week during the growing season and once a month during the dormant season.

Q: How do I propagate Melocactus?

A: Melocactus can be propagated by seed or by rooting offsets that grow from the base of the plant.

Q: How long does it take for Melocactus to produce flowers?

A: Melocactus can take several years to produce flowers. The plant must reach maturity and develop a cephalium before it can produce flowers.

Q: How do I care for a Melocactus in the winter?

A: During the winter, reduce watering and move the plant to a cooler location with less sunlight.

Related Plants

• Gymnocalycium
• Echinocactus
• Ferocactus
• Notocactus
• Parodia

References

• “Melocactus.” Wikipedia, Wikimedia Foundation, 13 Aug. 2021, en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Melocactus.
• Benson, Lyman David. The Cacti of the United States and Canada. Stanford University Press, 1982.
• Robbins, Wilfred W. Cacti. Crown Publishers, 1963.