Melocactus caesius, commonly known as the gray melon cactus, is a singular globus plant in the cactus family, Cactaceae. M. caesius is native to the coastal range of Venezuela and northern Columbia. The stems are blueish to gray green and measure up to 10 inches in diameter and 8 to 12 inches tall. Each rib is lined with white areols that house gray to dark brownish red spines. Dark purple to light pink flowers emerge from the white apical cephalium in spring to summer time. The cephalium only forms at maturity of the plant and will only flower when it is formed. The fruit of M. caesius are edible and dark pink to red in color. The fruits also measure about 1 inch long and 0.3 inches in diameter with a club-like shape. Melocactus caesius is grown as an ornamental plant for its bright flowers and edible fruit. M. caesius grows best in full sun to partial shade while sitting in well-draining soils. Water the plant adequately during summer and keep dry during winter as it is prone to rot. It is a drought-tolerant species and can tolerate a wide range of temperatures. Allow the soil to completely dry out in between waterings. USDA plant hardiness zones 9a to 11b. Melocactus caesius seeds require consistent moisture and humidity to germinate, but the soil should not remain soaking wet. Cloning boxes, ziplock bags, and other containers that retain humidity are ideal to store sown pots. Use a well-draining sterilized soil mix. Seeds should be sown directly on top of the potting mixture. Germinating pots should be kept indoors, out of extreme light and heat. Ideal germination temperatures range from 65°F to 70°F. Germination typically takes 2 to 4 weeks to occur. Even with optimal conditions, germination may be slow and sporadic. INTERNATIONAL SHIPPING DISCLAIMER: All packages will be shipped with basic customs information such as; HS codes, VAT numbers, and properly labeled contents. Unfortunately, The Garden of Set is unable to provide phytosanitary certificates for orders at this time. It is the buyer’s responsibility to know local laws regarding the import of plants, seeds, and plant products into their country. It is also up to the buyer to provide any other customs forms or information required to import plants into their country. If packages get stopped by customs, The Garden of Set will not be able to provide a refund for the purchase. Most of the time packages make it to their destinations just fine, this is for the small minority of packages that get stopped without having all the proper customs information required by the country of import. Purchase at your own discretion.
