Coleocephalocereus aureus

Coleocephalocereus aureus is a small cactus from Brazil. It belongs to the cactus family, Cactaceae. Its native range lies in northeastern Minas Gerais. It grows in a tropical climate with a dry season. In the wild, it occupies rocky outcrops within caatinga vegetation. It can dominate these exposed sites in some places. Its known range is limited, though it occurs at many locations.

The plant forms a short column clothed in golden spines. It reaches about 1.6 feet [0.5 metres] in height. Small, pale yellow flowers open at night during summer. They grow from a cephalium on one side of the stem. This is a dense patch of wool or bristles. Its presence marks a plant old enough to flower. The golden spines and side flowering patch give it a clear visual character.

This tropical cactus needs care and is not a beginner’s plant. Under good conditions, it can grow at a fairly fast rate. Give it a very open cactus mix and good drainage. Its weak roots do not cope well with wet soil. Repotting can also set it back for a long time. It needs very bright light, though less than desert-adapted cacti. Strong light can turn the stem bronze. It also helps the plant flower and form more spines.

Growth runs from April to October in the cited care account. Water during growth, then let the mix dry well between waterings. Do not leave it wholly dry for long periods. At the same time, too much water can cause rot. During its October-to-April rest, it still needs some water. The source suggests watering about once a month in winter. Do not feed it during that season. Warmth throughout the year improves the chances of success. Brief exposure to 4°C may be tolerated, but cold can kill. The source favors winter minimums of 12–20°C.

Insects may attack, though healthy plants can remain largely pest-free. In the wild, habitat loss poses a separate threat. Mining and granite quarrying remove the rocky sites it needs. Small cattle farms and invasive pasture grasses also harm its habitat. These pressures are causing the species to decline.