Melocactus broadwayi aka Turk's Cap

Melocactus broadwayi is a small cactus from the Caribbean. Its native range runs from the Windward Islands to Tobago. It belongs to Cactaceae, the cactus family. Kew classes it as a succulent subshrub from seasonally dry tropical regions. Common names include Turk's head cactus and Pope's head. The RHS also lists Cactus broadwayi as a synonym.

Plants tend to grow alone rather than form clumps. Young plants look like small barrel cacti. The round to cone-shaped stem has 13–18 strong lengthwise ribs. Its body reaches about 0.66 feet (0.2 metres) tall and wide. Mature plants develop a distinct crown called a cephalium. This white structure bears brown-red bristles above the ribbed body. Small flowers emerge from the top of the cephalium. Their colours range from bright pink to purple. The red fruits have a pear-like shape.

This cactus needs careful watering and warmth throughout the year. LLIFLE describes growth from April to October, followed by winter rest. It needs a fair amount of water while growing. Yet its weak roots cannot cope well with wet soil. Let the mix dry well between waterings without prolonged complete dryness. Too much water can cause rot and kill the plant. Use a mix that lets excess water drain away fast. Give it very bright light, though less than desert cacti need.

Cold is another key limit on its care. LLIFLE advises keeping it above a minimum of 46–54°F (8–12°C). Even cool conditions can cause severe harm or death. Winter rest does not mean keeping the roots completely dry. The source suggests watering about once a month in winter. It also advises against feeding during that resting season. Repotting can disturb the weak roots, which may recover slowly. These needs make the species a poor choice for beginners.

LLIFLE lists seed as the sole means of propagation. Sow in February or March in a porous, sandy mix. A glass cover helps keep germinating seeds from drying out. Germination works best at 64–72°F (18–22°C). The ribbed stem, bristled crown, and coloured flowers give it visual interest. The supplied sources do not establish landscape uses or food value. They also give no firm evidence about toxicity or specific pests. Rot from excess water remains the main stated disease concern.