Melocactus Maxonii
The Melocactus Maxonii is an emblematic species of the genus Melocactus, native to the dry tropical regions of Central America. It is particularly renowned for its classic silhouette and the remarkable appearance of its woolly cephalium, which distinguishes it from other cacti. This species is appreciated by collectors for its compact structure and the beauty of its discreet but continuous flowering from the cephalium.
Its body is globular to short cylindrical, with an intense green or bluish-green color, generally measuring between 10 and 15 cm in diameter at maturity. It features between 10 and 13 rounded, well-defined ribs, bearing areoles with fine, straight radial spines, brown to gray in color. Unlike the inermis variety, this form has visible but non-aggressive spines.
At maturity, a dense cephalium forms at the top of the cactus. It is composed of a mixture of white wool and red or orange bristles, and continues to grow each year. It is from this cephalium that small flowers emerge, followed by elongated, decorative pink to red fruits.
🌤️ Indoors: Place it near a south-facing window. If light is insufficient, use a grow light.
☁️ Lack of light: Causes etiolation, prevents cephalium development and increases disease susceptibility.
🍂 Autumn - Winter: Almost completely stop watering. Melocactus maxonii enters dormancy and becomes very vulnerable to moisture.
⚠️ Common mistake: Overwatering! This cactus tolerates drought much better than excess water.
❄️ Minimum temperatures: Not below 12°C. Prolonged cold can cause death of the cephalium and roots.
🏠 Advice: Overwinter the plant in a bright, dry and temperate room.
💡 Recommended mix: 50% cactus substrate + 50% pumice.
🍓 Fruits: Pink, elongated, decorative, sometimes edible but without flavor.
💡 Note: Flowering may last throughout the warm season if the plant is well exposed.
