07/02/2022
Orange Melocactus
Description: Usually stay solitary, mature plants are easily recognizable by their cephalium, that have a covering of wool and orange or red bristles, The immature plant looks like a smallish barrel cactus, and there is nothing in its appearance that would suggest a melocactus. M. zehentneri is a very variable species in size colour and form of the spines.
Stem: Strongly longitudinally ribbed globose or spheroid
Flowers: Small inconspicuous purple, self pollinating flowers grow at the top of the cephalium.
Fruit: White or pink clavate.
Propagation: Exclusively by Seeds. Sow in February-march in a light, sandy, porous soil. Cover germinating tray with glass to prevent seed from drying out. Germination is most successful at a temperature of 18 to 22Β° C.
Source: https://www.cactus-art.biz/schede/MELOCACTUS/Melocactus_zehentneri/Melocactus_zehentneri/Melocactus_zehentneri.htm
