Melocactus ernestii are native to Brazil and are one of the largest species of Melocactus, they also have the longest spines in the genus. Melocactus are easy to identify because of their cephalium. A cephalium is a structure covered in densely packed wooly areoles with numerous red or pink spines that forms at the apex of Melocactus at maturity where the flowers form. Melocactus ernestii flowers are small, pink, purple, or red flowers that form in a ring around the cephalium annually during midsummer. Before the cephalium forms, the immature plants resemble barrel cacti in the genus Ferocactus. Melocactus ernestii are hardy to zone 10b.
Sow the Melocactus ernestii seeds on the surface of a well draining potting mix. Sprinkle just enough soil on the surface to cover the seeds. Keep the soil moist, but not soaking wet. Place the seeds in a bright area between 65°F and 75°F for best results. Seeds typically take 4 to 6 weeks to germinate, but can take longer. 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.