Melocactus Neryi

Description

Melocactus Neryi, also known as the Turk’s Cap Cactus, is a small, slow-growing cactus native to the Caribbean islands. This plant typically grows to be 5-6 inches tall and 4-5 inches wide, and it is known for its unique and striking appearance. The plant has a round body that is covered in prominent ribs, and it is topped with a bright red or pink cap-like structure that gives it its common name.

Taxonomic Information

Appearance

The body of the Melocactus Neryi is typically green or gray-green in color, and it is covered in 10-13 prominent ribs that run vertically from the base of the plant to the top. The ribs are dotted with small, white spines that are typically less than 1 cm long. At the top of the plant, there is a bright red or pink cap-like structure that is covered in small, white hairs. This structure can be up to 3 cm in diameter, and it is made up of modified leaves that protect the plant’s delicate flower buds.

Care Guide

The Melocactus Neryi is a relatively easy plant to care for, but it does require some specific conditions in order to thrive. Here are some tips for caring for your Turk’s Cap Cactus:

• Water: Melocactus Neryi prefers well-draining soil and should only be watered when the soil is completely dry. During the growing season, water the plant thoroughly and allow the excess water to drain away. In the winter, reduce watering to once every 4-6 weeks.
• Fertilization: During the growing season, fertilize the plant with a cactus-specific fertilizer once every 4-6 weeks.
• Soil: Melocactus Neryi prefers a well-draining soil mix that is specifically formulated for cacti and succulents.
• Sunlight: This plant prefers bright, indirect sunlight. It can tolerate some direct sunlight, but too much can cause the plant to burn.
• Hardiness Zones: Melocactus Neryi is hardy in USDA zones 10-11.

Common Pests & Diseases

The Melocactus Neryi is relatively resistant to pests and diseases, but there are a few issues that you should watch out for:

• Mealybugs: These small, white insects can infest the plant and cause damage. They can be treated with a solution of water and rubbing alcohol.
• Root rot: Overwatering or poorly-draining soil can cause root rot, which can be fatal to the plant. To prevent root rot, make sure the soil is well-draining and allow it to dry out completely before watering.
• Spider mites: These tiny pests can infest the plant and cause damage. They can be treated with a solution of water and neem oil.

Habitat

The Melocactus Neryi is native to the Caribbean islands, where it grows in rocky, arid environments. It is typically found growing on hillsides and in rocky outcroppings, where it has adapted to survive in harsh conditions.

Question and Answer

Q: How often should I water my Melocactus Neryi?

A: Melocactus Neryi should only be watered when the soil is completely dry. During the growing season, water the plant thoroughly and allow the excess water to drain away. In the winter, reduce watering to once every 4-6 weeks.

Q: What kind of soil does Melocactus Neryi prefer?

A: Melocactus Neryi prefers a well-draining soil mix that is specifically formulated for cacti and succulents.

Q: Can I grow Melocactus Neryi indoors?

A: Yes, Melocactus Neryi can be grown indoors as long as it is provided with bright, indirect sunlight and well-draining soil.

Q: How big does Melocactus Neryi get?

A: Melocactus Neryi typically grows to be 5-6 inches tall and 4-5 inches wide.

Related Plants

• Melocactus Matanzanus
• Melocactus Azureus
• Melocactus Intortus

References

• “Melocactus Neryi.” Cactus Art. Accessed August 25, 2021. http://www.cactus-art.biz/schede/MELOCACTUS/Melocactus_neryi/Melocactus_neryi/Melocactus_neryi.htm.
• “Melocactus Neryi.” World of Succulents. Accessed August 25, 2021. https://worldofsucculents.com/melocactus-neryi-turks-cap-cactus/.
• “Melocactus Neryi.” Desert-Tropicals. Accessed August 25, 2021. https://www.desert-tropicals.com/Plants/Cactaceae/Melocactus_neryi.html.