Turk’s Cap Cactus
Turk’s cap cactus is a fun item to add to a succulent collection.
Compared to the average cactus, it requires warm and pleasant temperatures and more water to be happy. If you’re able to provide these ideal conditions for Turk’s cap cactus, you will be rewarded with the sight of its famous red felted cap and bright pink flowers.
Botanical name: Melocactus azureus
Other names: Blue Turk’s cap cactus, blue melocactus, Turk's cap cactus
Turk’s cap cactus for sale at our nursery
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Turk’s Cap Cactus Appearance
Turk’s cap cactus is a small, round cactus that grows to about 1 foot tall and 1 foot wide. Its ideal climate conditions are very specific, and in its native habitat in Brazil, it can grow much larger, growing to a taller, oval shape.
Waxy, blue skin, which gives it its scientific name, Melocactus azureus. Azureus means “blue” in Latin.
Sharp, white to brown spines grow along the vertical ridges of the cactus.
Once a healthy Turk’s cap cactus has matured, it will grow a cephalium, which is characteristic of all Melocactus species. Cephalia means “head” in Latin and refers to the red-orange cap with the texture of bristles at the top of the cactus. Once in bloom, the cactus will grow bright pink flowers from the cephalium.
Followed by reddish fruits with seeds.
Once the Turk’s cap cactus has grown a cephalium, the main body of the cactus will not grow much further. However, the cephalium will keep growing taller in a cylindrical form.
*If you’re looking for an even smaller cactus, we also carry the Dwarf Turk’s cap cactus (Melocactus matanzus).
Compared to Turk’s cap cactus, it is very small, at about 4 inches tall and 3 inches wide. Also, instead of a blue stem, it has a green stem.
The care instructions for the two cacti are very similar.
Turk’s Cap Cactus Landscaping Tips
Dwarf Turk’s cap cactus (Melocactus matanzus) with a cephalium
Attention-grabbing with its unusual red cephalium. It is a great item for a succulent collection or an unusual-looking plant collection.
Turk’s cap cactus can be challenging to grow outdoors in hot or cold regions. For optimal health, we recommend keeping it in a container in these regions so that you can easily alter its temperature and/or light settings. In the summertime in the Coachella Valley, keep it in partial or full shade. In winter, either move it indoors or in a greenhouse when the temperatures get to the 40s or below.
Turk’s cap cactus is easy to grow indoors, given a bright, sunny window and temperature conditions that are comfortable for people.
Turk’s Cap Cactus Origin
Turk’s cap cactus is native to temperate regions in Bahia, Brazil
Turk’s Cap Cactus Care
Soil: Loose, well-draining soil that is lightly fertile.
Temperature: It can withstand temperatures down to 35 degrees for a short period of time, but it does not perform well in triple-digit heat.
Water: Occasional, deep watering. Allow the soil to completely dry out between waterings. Use a moisture meter or stick your finger through the soil to gauge the moisture level. It’s better to err on the side of underwatering than overwatering. Note that Turk’s cap cactus enjoys more water than the average cactus native to the Coachella Valley.
Sun: Partial sun
Turk’s Cap Cactus Problems
Pests: Fungal diseases from root rot, dry rot, and harsh weather conditions.
Signs of overwatering: Drooping, squishy texture (especially at the bottom of the cactus)
Signs of too little water: Shriveling, drying skin
Signs of too much sun: Burning, scarring, fading color
Signs of too little sun: Etiolation, discoloring
Turk’s Cap Cactus Propagation
Once the Turk’s cap cactus blooms and fruits, collect seeds.
FAQ
How much does a Turk’s Cap Cactus cost?
At our nursery, Turk’s cap cactus costs $15 for a 1-gallon container and $45 for a 5-gallon container.
Prices are subject to change. Please contact us for the most up-to-date information on pricing. We may have larger sizes available. We provide installation services locally at a separate cost.
How can I get a Turk’s Cap Cactus to flower?
Provide the Turk’s cap cactus with fertilizer formulated for succulents during the growing season, carefully following the instructions on the label. Provide optimal growing conditions, following our care recommendations on our website.
Can I grow a Turk’s Cap Cactus indoors?
Yes, as long as it is placed near a bright, sunny window.
Summary
| SIZE (H X W) | 1 foot X 1 foot |
|---|---|
| FLOWER COLOR | Pink |
| FLOWER SEASON | Spring to Fall |
| EXPOSURE | Partial Sun |
| WATER | Low |
| GROWTH RATE | Slow |
| HARDINESS | 35º F, USDA Zone 10 |
| PRUNING | None |