Dwarf Turk's Cap Cactus - 10 seeds

Melocactus matanzanus is a small, perennial, fleshy, globose cactus up to 3.6 inches (9 cm) tall and up to 3.6 inches (9 cm) in diameter. On the bright green body there are 8 to 9 (or more) rounded ribs and brownish-gray or white clusters of recurved spines. The central spine is up to 2 inches (5 cm) long, while the 7 to 8 radial spines are up to 2 inches (5 cm) long. When the plant has reached a certain age it shows at the growing tip a cephalium, a globose structure covered with white wool and reddish-brown bristles. This structure, where the flower buds will form, reaches a height of up to 3.6 inches (9 cm) and up to 2.4 inches (6 cm) in diameter. The flowers are carmine and up to 2 inches (5 cm) long.

HOW TO GROW?

These cacti are not difficult to propagate from seed. Plant the seeds in well-aerated soil that drains well, and make sure to soak them in warm water before you do. Then seal the new seeds to keep in heat and moisture, which will help them root. Their root systems will take a little while to develop, so don't overwater or overfeed them before they have the necessary equipment. Remember, always use fresh seed—it should be dry when you get it, before it's soaked.