At first glance , you might do a double - take when you see the Melocactus zehntneri cactus . With its orotund , brain - corresponding cephalium on top , this bizarre - seem plant is certain to catch your center . But do n’t let its freaky appearing fool you – the Melocactus zehntneri is actually a gripping metal money that ’s easy to grow at home . Despite its exotic - esque looks , this cactus from Brazil has simple caution need once you get past its salient , one - of - a - kind formation . Keep reading to find out all about the superbly eldritch yet grim - criminal maintenance Melocactus zehntneri !
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About Melocactus zehntneri
Also live as the Turk ’s crown or melon cactus , Melocactus zehntneri is native to parts of Brazil , though some varieties can be found in Mexico , Peru and the Caribbean . It has a single cylindric stem with 10 - 15 rib wrap up in spines . The real showstopper is the vivid scarlet cephalium on top that produces tiny pinkish flowers .
While it may expect otherworldly , the Melocactus zehntneri wee a heavy small - maintenance houseplant when you meet its simple charge needs . Here ’s what you need to know :
related to Post:35 Types of Melocactus Cacti [ With Pictures ]
How to Care for Melocactus zehntneri
Light
This cactus want at least 6 60 minutes of direct sunlight per twenty-four hours to flourish . Outdoors is ideal , but you may also grow it inwardly near a sunny windowpane orunder a grow light . Lack of sufficient light will cause the works to become leggy andlose its round shape .
Water
Melocactus zehntneri like its soil to remain slightly moist . Water whenever the top few inches of soil have dried out , about once every 1 - 2 weeks . Be trusted to impregnate the soil completely and discard anyexcess moisturefrom the drainage tray .
Soil
Use a well - drainingcactus soil mix . Standard potting soil holds too much moisture . The ideal cactus intermixture is spirited and holey to preclude rot .
Fertilizer
Feed every few months during fountain and summertime with a balancedcactus fertilizerdiluted to half lastingness . This gives roots the nutrients needed for healthy growth .
Temperature
Warmtemperatures between 70 - 90 ° F ( 21 - 32 ° C ) are undecomposed . annul freezing winters .
Pests and Problems
Melocactus zehntneri is broadly speaking cuss - gratuitous , thoughmealybugsor scale can appear . address with neem crude or manually remove pests . Root rot from overwatering is the biggest menace .
Pruning
Pruningisn’t required beyond polish off any stagnant , discredited or discolored stems .
Potting and Repotting
Repotevery 2 - 3 year in former leap in a container just an in or two wide of the mark than before . Choose a well - draining pot and mob the soil unwaveringly around the base .
Melocactus zehntneri Propagation Method
Melocactus zehntneri can only be propagated from germ . Here are the steps for successful germ propagation :
Sticking to the right soil , controlled moisture degree , and ideal temperature ambit gives Melocactus zehntneri seed the pure start for successful propagation from seed . With some time and care , you ’ll soon have new brain - like cacti to admire !
