Melocactus matanzanus, common name dwarf Turk's-cap cactus or Turk's-cap cactus, is a cactus in the genus Melocactus of the family Cactaceae. The epithet matanzanus is derived from the Cuban province of Matanzas.

Description

Melocactus matanzanus is a perennial fleshy globose plant. It can reach a height of 70–90 mm (2+3⁄4–3+1⁄2 in) and a diameter of 80–90 mm (3+1⁄4–3+1⁄2 in). On the bright green body there are 8–9 (or more) ribs. The thorns are brownish-gray or white. The central spine is up to 50 mm (2 in) long, while the 7 to 8 radial spines are 30–50 mm (1+1⁄4–2 in) long.

When the plant has reached a certain age it shows at the growing tip a cephalium (hence the common name of "Turk's Cap"), a globose structure covered with reddish-brown bristles. This structure, where the flower buds will form, reaches a height of up to 90 mm (3+1⁄2 in) and a diameter of 50–60 mm (2–2+1⁄2 in). The flowers are carmine, about 50 mm (2 in) long.

Distribution

This plant is native to the north-central area of Cuba. It is a popular and desirable species throughout the world as an ornamental plant.

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