Astrophytum nudam x hybrid

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Astrophytum nudam x hybrid

Astrophytum is a genus that now includes six North American cacti species found in Mexico and some areas of the U.S. Three of the six species are fairly common in residential cultivation, and they are sometimes known collectively as star cactus—named for the ribbed structure that has a star-like shape when the plant is viewed from above. The body is covered with aureoles from which sharp black or golden spines protrude. Several of the species grow white flocking on the body—an adaptation designed to protect the plant’s tissues from the sunlight.

Astrophytum cacti are known for their beautiful growth habit and unusual shape (they are sometimes known as “living rocks”) as well as for lovely yellow flowers that extend up from the apex.

Astrophytum species, like most cacti, are generally very slow-growing. Although mature specimens are quite impressive, it can take years to nurture an Astrophytum to that level. These are also very difficult plants to cultivate; they are often grafted onto an Echinopsis cactus for best results. Although not easy plants to nurture, if properly grown, these are among the most beautiful of North America cacti.

Astrophytum Cactus Care

The needs of an Astrophytum cactus are the same as for other cacti—coarse, porous soil, and plenty of sunlight. While this cactus can be grown as a landscape garden specimen in the proper climate, it more commonly is used as a potted specimen for indoor growing or on decks and patios.

Astrophytums are not vigorous plants, and they require a lot of patience to reach their full potential. Keep regularly watering and feeding them during the growing season and repot annually to give them space to develop. They need a temperate, dry winter; make sure not to overwater them, which can cause root rot. If given sufficient care, they will develop marvelous flowers once they reach maturity.

Watch out for common cactus pests like aphids and scale—these can often be taken care of by a good eco-friendly pesticide, or simply wiped away with a cloth.

Light

Give Astrophytum cacti plenty of sunlight—at least 6 hours per day if growing outdoors. As a potted indoor plant, it can do fine in a window that gets direct sunlight or intense indirect light.

Like most cacti, these species need well-drained, fairly sandy soil and will likely perish in rich soils that retain moisture.

Water

Despite their reputation as desert plants, many cacti, including the Astrophytum species, perform best if the soil gets a good drenching between periods where it dries out entirely. A potted plant should get a decent watering once a month during the growing season, but make sure the plant’s roots don’t sit in water. During the winter, watering can be less frequent.

Astrophytum Cacti Species

Astrophytum myriostigma (commonly called bishop’s cap cactus, bishop’s hat or bishop’s miter cactus) has a star-shape structure that takes the domed-like appearance of a bishop’s headwear. It has three to seven well-defined ribs, and can exceed 3 feet in height and 8 inches in diameter when it grows in the garden, though as a houseplant it is generally under 1 foot in height. The flowers are creamy yellow with an orange or red base.

Astrophytum capricorne (commonly called goat’s horn cactus) grows about 10 inches tall and 4 inches across. It has a gray-green color with prominent ribs and yellow flowers.

For More Information Astrophytum nudam

Temperature and Humidity

These cacti like warm temperatures above 70 degrees Fahrenheit all summer, then slightly cooler, more temperate winter conditions. High humidity is not advised for these plants.

Potting and Repotting

Repot these cacti regularly to help them develop. Astrophytums should be repotted at the beginning of the growing season to allow them to grow into the impressive specimens for which the genus is known. Wearing sturdy gloves, lift the plant out all at once, then move to a larger pot and backfill with potting mix. Don’t overwater or overfeed newly repotted cacti, as disturbance can be hard on them.

Please Note

This product will be hand delivered to your doorstep.

The image is for reference only.

Please take out the plant from the box immediately after receiving and water it as required.

Water the soil, not the leaves and flowers.

Keep it away from direct sunlight.
Avoid placing plants in trouble spots, such as near heat or air conditioning ducts.

From enisarg.com