Melocactus, Turk's-cap Cactus
Melocactusviolaceus

Synonym:Melocactus violaceus subsp. violaceus

Synonym:Melocactus depressus

Synonym:Melocactus ellemeetii

Synonym:Cactus melocactoides

Synonym:Melocactus violaceus subsp. natalensis

Category
Cactus and Succulents

Water Requirements
Drought-tolerant; suitable for xeriscaping

Sun Exposure
Full Sun
Sun to Partial Shade

Foliage

Foliage Color

Height
6-12 in. (15-30 cm)

Spacing
15-18 in. (38-45 cm)
18-24 in. (45-60 cm)

Hardiness
USDA Zone 11: above 4.5 °C (40 °F)

Where to Grow
Can be grown as an annual

Danger
Plant has spines or sharp edges; use extreme caution when handling

Bloom Color
Pale Pink
Pink
White/Near White

Bloom Characteristics

Bloom Size

Bloom Time

Other details

Soil pH requirements
6.1 to 6.5 (mildly acidic)
6.6 to 7.5 (neutral)
7.6 to 7.8 (mildly alkaline)

Patent Information
Non-patented

Propagation Methods
From seed; direct sow after last frost

Seed Collecting
Allow unblemished fruit to ripen; clean and dry seeds
Unblemished fruit must be significantly overripe before harvesting seed; clean and dry seeds
Properly cleaned, seed can be successfully stored