Turk's Head Cactus (Melocactus Intortus) is a perennial cactus in the Cactaceae family with moderate care difficulty. It requires low watering and full sun or partial shade light in USDA hardiness zones 9-11. This plant is safe for cats and dogs. It can be grown indoors.

Melocactus intortus is a spiny, evergreen cactus native to the Caribbean, known for its distinctive cephalium resembling a turban or 'Turk's head'.

Turk's Head Cactus

Turk's Head Cactus

Melocactus Intortus

Melocactus intortus is a spiny, evergreen cactus native to the Caribbean, known for its distinctive cephalium resembling a turban or 'Turk's head'.

Quick Facts

Type
cactus
Lifecycle
perennial
Care Difficulty
Moderate
Water Needs
Low
Light
Full Sun, Partial Shade
Hardiness Zones
9-11

Safety

🐕
Pet Safe
👶
Child Safe
Non-Toxic

Growing Conditions

Soil Types:sandy, rocky, well-drained
Indoor:Yes
Outdoor:Yes
Garden Use:specimen, ornamental, drought-tolerant landscaping

Care Calendar

Monthly care tasks for Turk's Head Cactus

Jan
Prune
Feb
Fertilize
Mar
Repot
Apr
Water+
May
...
Jun
...
Jul
...
Aug
...
Sep
...
Oct
...
Nov
...
Dec
...

Expert Care Tips

Pro tips from botanists and plant experts

Watering Tip

Check soil moisture by inserting your finger 1 inch deep. Water only when the top layer feels dry to prevent overwatering.

Humidity Trick

Group plants together to create...

Growth Hack

Rotate your plant every...

Photo Gallery10+ photos

Turk's Head Cactus
Turk's Head Cactus detail

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Taxonomy

Family:Cactaceae
Genus:Melocactus