melocactus matazanus

Melocactus matazanus is native to the rocky limestone coasts of Matanzas province, Cuba. It is a monocarpic species producing a persistent red-orange cephalium, a key diagnostic trait within Melocactus. Globose stem 10-15 cm diameter with 8-10 prominent ribs; radial spines slender, 1-2 cm long; dark green color with bluish tones under full sun. Cylindrical cephalium up to 6 cm, densely covered by orange hairs.