Also known as Barrel Cactus · Mother-In-Law's Pincushion · Pope's Head Cactus
Melocactus intortus, the Turk's-Cap Cactus, is a striking succulent with a distinctive cephalium, producing vibrant pink flowers and red fruits.
At-a-glance light, water, soil, and growing conditions from plant data
Prefers full sun to light shade.
75% intensity
Protect from intense midday sun in very hot climates to prevent scorching.
Allow soil to dry out completely between waterings.
25% intensity
Reduce drastically in winter; overwatering is fatal.
Well-draining, sandy
50% intensity
Warm temperatures during the growing season.
75% intensity
Tolerates heat but needs protection from frost; minimum ideal temperature is around 10°C.
Outdoor
50% intensity
Feed during the growing season.
50% intensity
Use a diluted cactus-specific fertilizer monthly from spring to summer; avoid in dormancy.
Safety information from plant toxicity data
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Toxic for humans | No 0/5 intensity |
| Toxic for pets | No 0/5 intensity |
Non-toxic
Key traits and growing stats from plant data
Watering, pruning, propagation, and repotting details from plant data
Water thoroughly when the soil is completely dry, typically every 2-4 weeks during the growing season. Reduce watering significantly in winter to prevent root rot.
Ensure excellent drainage to avoid waterlogged conditions, which this species detests.
Pruning is generally not required for Melocactus intortus. Remove any dead or damaged parts promptly to maintain plant health and appearance.
The cephalium, the characteristic woolly crown, should not be pruned as it is essential for flowering.
Propagate primarily through seed, which requires warm, humid conditions for germination. Cuttings are rarely successful and can be prone to rot. Sow seeds on a well-draining cactus mix and keep moist and warm.
Repot every 2-3 years or when the plant outgrows its container, preferably in spring. Use a fast-draining cactus mix. Handle carefully to avoid damaging the body and the delicate cephalium.
A slightly larger pot is usually sufficient.
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Monthly activity intensity for bloom and fruit across both hemispheres.
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Photos of Turk's-Cap Cactus (Melocactus intortus)
Where Turk's-Cap Cactus (Melocactus intortus) is found
Density
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Common names and botanical synonyms
Botanical classification
| Rank | Name |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Division | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Caryophyllales |
| Family | Cactaceae |
| Genus | Melocactus |
| Species | Melocactus intortus |
Similar in genus Melocactus
Answers based on plant encyclopedia data
