Contents
Description
Melocactus Zehntneri, also known as the Turk’s Cap Cactus, is a rare and unique cactus species that is native to Brazil. It is a small, slow-growing cactus that can reach up to 6 inches in height and 4 inches in diameter. The plant is characterized by its distinctive shape, which resembles a turban or fez. It has a bright green stem that is covered with white, woolly hairs and a red or pink cap-like structure on top. The Turk’s Cap Cactus produces beautiful pink or purple flowers that bloom in the summer.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Caryophyllales |
| Family | Cactaceae |
| Genus | Melocactus |
Appearance
The Melocactus Zehntneri is a small, slow-growing cactus that has a unique and distinctive appearance. The stem is bright green and covered with white, woolly hairs. The top of the stem is capped with a red or pink structure that resembles a turban or fez. The plant produces beautiful pink or purple flowers that bloom in the summer. The flowers are small and delicate, and they add a pop of color to the plant’s unique appearance.
Care Guide
The Turk’s Cap Cactus is a relatively easy plant to care for, but it does require specific conditions to thrive. Here are some tips for caring for Melocactus Zehntneri:
Water: Water the plant deeply once a week during the growing season (spring and summer), and reduce watering to once every two weeks during the dormant season (fall and winter). Make sure the soil is completely dry before watering again.
Fertilization: Fertilize the plant once a month during the growing season with a cactus-specific fertilizer. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for application.
Soil: The Turk’s Cap Cactus prefers well-draining soil that is slightly acidic. A cactus-specific soil mix is recommended.
Sunlight: The plant prefers bright, indirect sunlight. Avoid direct sunlight, as it can scorch the plant’s delicate skin.
Hardiness Zones: Melocactus Zehntneri is hardy in USDA zones 10-12.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Turk’s Cap Cactus is relatively resistant to pests and diseases, but it can still fall victim to a few common issues. Here are some of the most common pests and diseases that affect Melocactus Zehntneri:
Mealybugs: These small, white insects can infest the plant and cause damage. Use a cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol to remove them.
Root rot: Overwatering can cause root rot, which can be fatal to the plant. Make sure the soil is completely dry before watering again.
Habitat
Melocactus Zehntneri is native to Brazil, where it grows in rocky areas and on hillsides. The plant prefers to grow in well-draining soil and in areas with bright, indirect sunlight.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Melocactus Zehntneri be grown indoors?
A: Yes, the Turk’s Cap Cactus can be grown indoors as long as it receives bright, indirect sunlight and is planted in well-draining soil.
Q: Does the plant need to be pruned?
A: No, pruning is not necessary for Melocactus Zehntneri.
Q: Can the plant be propagated?
A: Yes, the Turk’s Cap Cactus can be propagated by seeds or offsets.
Q: How often should I fertilize Melocactus Zehntneri?
A: Fertilize the plant once a month during the growing season (spring and summer).
Related Plants
Here are some other cactus species that are related to Melocactus Zehntneri:
- Melocactus Matanzanus
- Melocactus Conoideus
- Melocactus Azureus
- Melocactus Carneus
- Melocactus Intortus
References
- “Melocactus Zehntneri (Turk’s Cap Cactus).” World of Succulents. Accessed March 26, 2021. https://worldofsucculents.com/melocactus-zehntneri-turks-cap-cactus/.
- “Melocactus Zehntneri.” Cactus Art Nursery. Accessed March 26, 2021. https://www.cactus-art.biz/schede/Melocactus/Melocactus_zehntneri/Melocactus_zehntneri/Melocactus_zehntneri.htm.
- “Melocactus Zehntneri.” PlantZAfrica.com. Accessed March 26, 2021. http://pza.sanbi.org/melocactus-zehntneri.
