Astrophytum is a genus of six types of cacti native to Mexico and the southwest part of the United States. These species are often described as “living rocks,” though the term is also used for other genera, especially Lithops. The generic name is derived from the Greek words “star” and “plant.”
The body of a star cactus is covered with aureoles that contain sharp black or golden spinal columns. A couple of types grow white flowers (an adaptation designed to secure the plant’s tissues from sunlight) in addition to yellow, orange, or red flowers that flower from the plant’s center.
Astrophytum is really slow-growing, with fully grown specimens being impressive as they can grow quite huge. It is likewise a really hard plant to propagate and normally needs grafting onto an Echinopsis cactus for the best results. Although the star cactus needs patience, when effectively grown, it is among the most stunning of the North American cacti.
In this guide, we will cover 6 Types of Astrophytum as follows.
- 1. Astrophytum Asterias
- 2. Astrophytum Capricorne
- 3. Astrophytum Caput-Medusae
- 4. Astrophytum Mirum
- 5. Astrophytum Myriostigma
- 6. Astrophytum Ornatum
- How To Grow And Care For Astrophytum Cactus
- How To Propagate Astrophytum Cactus
- Top 5 FAQ And Answers For Astrophytum Cactus
- Top 10 Interesting Facts About Astrophytum Cactus
1. Astrophytum Asterias
Astrophytum Asterias is a type of cactus in the genus Astrophytum and belongs to the Cactaceae family. It is indigenous to small areas of Texas in both the United States and Mexico. Sand dollar cactus, sea urchin cactus, star cactus, and star peyote are some common names, and it is often known as a living rock.
This winter-dormant plant can reach a height of 6–12 inches and is relatively simple to grow. This cactus flowers in the midsummer season and produces pale yellow flowers.
When grown in light to partial shade, the color of Astrophytum asterias becomes richer and darker. The Astrophytum asterias has eight balanced sectors on its spineless, dome-shaped, olive-green body. Each sector has small tufts of white hair.
The Astrophytum Asteriae plant is liked by cactus-growing enthusiasts for its distinctively stubby, little star-like look. They are such a simple plant to grow and make an excellent addition to any cactus houseplant display or terrarium.
2. Astrophytum Capricorne
Astrophytum Capricorne, the goat’s horn cactus, is a type of blooming plant in the cactus family Cactaceae that is native to Northern Mexico. Growing to 25 centimeters (9.8 in) high by 10 centimeters (3.9 in) wide in a ball or oval shape, it is grey-green in color with 7 to 9 prominent ribs, long twisted spinal columns, and yellow flowers with a red center in summertime.
It is a slow-growing and drought-tolerant cactus with a couple of appealing features that set it apart from other cacti. It is also a popular option for indoor growers because it is easy to care for and does not require much water. With correct care, Astrophytum Capricorne can live for several years.
3. Astrophytum Caput-Medusae
Astrophytum Caput-Medusae is a native Mexican cactus species.The plant is only known to grow wild in one location. This species varies from the traditional star-shaped phenotype associated with other Astrophytum members. The plant is identified by a round, decreased stem with triangular or round tubercles producing yellow flowers with orange perianth areas.
Astrophytum Caput-Medusae cacti require plenty of sunshine. Hence, if you are growing them on your own, you ought to guarantee that they receive numerous hours of direct sunlight. Around six hours of this ought to be sufficient.
You ought to water your Astrophytum Caput-Medusae cactus once a month throughout the spring and summer season (the growing season), although more than that may also be needed if you live in exceptionally hot climates. Make sure to thoroughly water this plant so that the soil is saturated. Nevertheless, make certain that you do not overwater this cactus, as this could result in root rot, affecting the health of the cactus too.
4. Astrophytum Mirum
Astrophytum Mirum is a blooming plant native to Northern Mexico in the cactus family Cactaceae.The flower is indistinguishable from the flower of subsp. tulense.
Astrophytum Mirum is rather similar to Astrophytum Myriostigma.
It differs from the other cacti in this genus in appearance, with tentacle-like stems twisting and turning from its base.It is understood to produce heavily petalled, whiteish-yellow flowers with an orange throat.
This one is something of a collector’s item and is exceptionally slow-growing.
5. Astrophytum Myriostigma
Astrophytum Myriostigma, also frequently referred to as the bishop’s cap cactus, bishop’s hat, or bishop’s miter cactus, is a species of spineless cactus native to the highlands of northeastern and central Mexico.
The rounded to oval-shaped plants are unbranched and typically have 5 (rarely 4 and approximately 8) broad, prominent ribs that narrow to a severe point. The ribs are covered in small, densely woolly patches, giving the plant its characteristic gray-green look.
The stunning succulent Astrophytum Myriostigma, like other plants in this genus, grows in a shape comparable to that of a star. Fully grown plants will rise to 2′ high and 8″ large.
6. Astrophytum Ornatum
Astrophytum Ornatum, the bishop’s cap or monk’s hood cactus, is a blooming plant of the family Cactaceae, endemic to the Central Plateau of Mexico. It is the biggest and tallest species of Astrophytum.
It is a round or columnar cactus that is star-shaped from above and has white bands of woolly scales. Astrophytum Ornatum has a winter dormancy and grows to a height of 12 to 18 inches.It is a slow-growing plant, and the major factor that determines its growth rate is the local climate conditions of the environment.
Astrophytum Ornatum has flowers that range in color from pale pink to purple and blooms best in the summer. Another advantage is that these flowers are fragrant.
How To Grow And Care For Astrophytum Cactus
Growing and caring for Astrophytum cactus involves providing the following conditions:
- Light: The Astrophytum cactus prefers bright, indirect light but can also tolerate some direct sun.
- Water: Water the cactus sparingly and allow the soil to dry out completely between waterings. Overwatering can lead to root rot.
- Soil: Use a well-draining cactus mix or a blend of regular potting soil and sand.
- Temperature: Keep the temperature between 60-85°F (15-30°C).
- Humidity: The cactus prefers low humidity levels.
- Fertilizer: Fertilize the cactus once a month during the growing season with a balanced cactus fertilizer.
- Potting and Repotting: Repot the cactus every 2–3 years in a slightly larger pot with fresh soil.
- Pruning: Prune the cactus to control its size and shape and to remove any dead or yellowed stems.
Pests and Diseases: Keep an eye out for common cactus pests such as mealybugs and spider mites. Treat with a pesticide if necessary. Root rot can also be a problem if the cactus is overwatered.
How To Propagate Astrophytum Cactus
Propagating Astrophytum cactus can be done through seeds or offsets.
Offset Propagation: This is the most common method of propagation for Astrophytum cacti. Offsets are small plantlets that grow at the base of the parent plant. To propagate offsets, carefully remove them from the parent plant and let them callus over for a few days before planting them in a well-draining cactus mix.
Seed Propagation: Astrophytum cacti can also be propagated from seeds. Sow the seeds in a well-draining cactus mix and keep the soil moist but not wet. Place the seed tray in a bright, warm location and cover with plastic wrap to create a greenhouse effect. Remove the plastic wrap once the seeds have germinated.
Regardless of the propagation method, be sure to provide bright light and well-draining soil. Avoid overwatering, and keep the temperature between 60-85°F (15-30°C).
Top 5 FAQ And Answers For Astrophytum Cactus
Q: What is the ideal light for Astrophytum cactus?
A: Astrophytum cactus prefers bright, indirect light but can also tolerate some direct sun.
Q: How often should I water my Astrophytum cactus?
A: Water the cactus sparingly and allow the soil to dry out completely between waterings. Overwatering can lead to root rot.
Q: What kind of soil is best for Astrophytum cactus?
A: Use a well-draining cactus mix or a blend of regular potting soil and sand.
Q: What is the ideal temperature for Astrophytum cactus?
A: Keep the temperature between 60-85°F (15-30°C).
Q: How often should I fertilize my Astrophytum cactus?
A: Fertilize the cactus once a month during the growing season with a balanced cactus fertilizer.
Top 10 Interesting Facts About Astrophytum Cactus
- The Astrophytum cactus is native to Mexico.
- The name Astrophytum comes from the Greek words “astro,” meaning star, and “phyton,” meaning plant, referring to the star-like appearance of the cactus.
- The Astrophytum cactus is also known as the “Star Cactus” due to its unique, star-shaped stems.
- The cactus produces yellow or white flowers that bloom in the spring or summer.
- Some species of Astrophytum cactus have a fuzzy appearance due to the presence of fine hairs on the stems.
- The cactus is considered a slow-growing species and can take several years to reach maturity.
- The stems of the Astrophytum cactus have a distinctive, ribbed pattern that provides a natural water storage system for the plant.
- Some species of Astrophytum cactus are highly prized by collectors for their rarity and unique appearance.
- The cactus is drought-tolerant and can survive long periods without water.
- The stems of the Astrophytum cactus can reach up to 12 inches (30 cm) in height and can form clusters over time as the plant grows.
