Coleocephalocereus purpureus, also known as Buiningia purpureus, is a columnar cephalium forming plant in the cacti family, Cactaceae. C. purpureus is a fairly rare species of cacti native to Brazil, having less than 1000 specimens in their natural habitat. Populations are in decline due to habitat loss and human traffic. Coleocephalocereus purpureus produces purple, red, or pink flowers similar to the cacti in the genus Melocactus, forming out of the cephalium at maturity (5 to 7 years from seed). The plant produces small round red fruits, also similar to members of the genus Melocactus. C. purpureus grow in a columnar habit, branching from the base. Main stems reach up to 3 feet tall at maturity and are covered with wooly areoles containing yellow to red spines that turn gray with age. C. purpureus is a tropical species of cacti that enjoy frequent waterings during the growing season, allowing the soil to completely dry out between waterings. Withhold watering during the winter months because this species is prone to rot. C. purpureus do not enjoy being repotted, so be careful not to disturb the root ball when planting into a larger pot. USDA hardiness zones 10a to 11.
Coleocephalocereus purpureus 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 and lightly covered with a thin layer of potting mix, just enough to cover the seeds. Germinating pots should be kept indoors, out of extreme light and heat. Ideal germination temperatures range from 70°F to 80°F. Germination typically takes 1 to 3 weeks to occur. Even with optimal conditions, germination may be slow and sporadic.
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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.