Melocactus zehntneri – Turk’s Cap Cactus - OLD!

Melocactus zehntneri – Turk’s Cap Cactus -  Very Old -  30” Tall!

You will receive this exact, rare specimen.
This is a once in a lifetime find and we only have one of these.
Very old specimen.
Measures 30" tall x 11.5" wide.
Cephalium measures 17” tall.
Features 2 heads and a new baby.
Showcased here in one-of-a-kind Tuscan Terra Cotta Face Planter, handmade in Italy (sold separately).
This is a massive and heavy specimen so shipping will be expensive. 
We will contact you regarding best shipping arrangement based on your location.
Will be shipped bare root.

Melocactus zehntneri is a species of Turk's cap cactus native to northeastern Brazil. It is known for its distinct cephalium, which is a woolly, bristle-covered structure that develops on the top of the cactus when it reaches maturity.

Key Characteristics:

• Appearance:

• Globular to cylindrical stem, typically pale to dull green.

• 10 to 20 sharply acute ribs.

• A large cephalium, which can grow up to 72 cm in length.

• Cephalium covered in dense, fine, pale pinkish red bristles and sparse or abundant white to creamy white wool.

• Spines are stout, yellow, brown, or reddish, sometimes hooked in seedlings.

• Small, inconspicuous purple flowers bloom from the cephalium.

• White or pale to deep lilac-pink, clavate fruits.

• Habitat:

• Found in the Caatinga region of northeastern Brazil.

• Grows in various soil types, including sand and rocks.

• Cultivation:

• Prefers full sun exposure and well-draining soil.

• Requires moderate watering, allowing the soil to dry completely between waterings.

• Avoid overwatering, as it can lead to root rot.

• Needs warmth, with an ideal temperature range of 20 to 35 ℃.

• Propagated exclusively by seeds.

• Not considered an easy cactus to grow, particularly for beginners. 

Notes:

• Melocactus zehntneri is one of the larger Melocactus species.
• The cephalium grows for the rest of the plant's life, but the body of the plant stops growing once it forms.