How to Grow and Care for Melon cactus

Turk's Cap (*Melocactus intortus*) is a cactus native to the West Indies. Turk's Cap is also known by the alternative Latin name *Melocactus broadwayi*. This species is considered moderately difficult to cultivate as a houseplant and is susceptible to root rot. The soil should be allowed to dry completely between waterings.

Turk's cap (Melocactus salvadorensis) is a flowering cactus native to Brazil. In the wild, turk's cap grows near granite rocks in stony soils, and it is pollinated by hummingbirds. This species is endangered due to cattle ranching and illegal collection. Turk's cap is cultivated as a houseplant, but it is considered difficult to grow because it cannot live without water for very long. However, water also causes root rot, so a fine-tuned watering schedule is needed to keep this plant healthy.

Dwarf turk's-cap cactus is named for the reddish "cephalium" that forms a hat-like shape above the plant, similar to a Turkish fez. This cactus is a popular houseplant ideal for small containers. Sadly, it is classified as critically endangered in the wild, as its habitat has been displaced by commercial forestry.

Melocactus neryi is a fascinating type of cacti that blooms charming pink flowers annually, transforming a prickly exterior into a delightful spectacle. What's truly captivating is its peculiar cephalium, a woolly concentration of spines that sprout alluring fruit, serving as a haven for various birds. Its notable resilience makes it a prized possession for rock garden enthusiasts.

Melocactus macracanthos is a distinctive cactus with a bulbous, green body adorned with pronounced ribs and long, robust spines. Its most notable feature is the cephalium, a peculiar woolly growth at the top, from which pink flowers and later red fruits emerge. This adaptation helps melocactus macracanthos thrive in its arid habitats by facilitating efficient water usage and attracting pollinators.