Astrophytum ornatum - priest's hat (Vase 18 cm)

Genus of 4-6 species of slow-growing cactus, present in the dry and arid areas of the United States and northern Mexico. Astrophytum ornatum is a succulent plant with a globose then cylindrical appearance, up to 50 cm tall. In habitat this species can grow up to 1.5 m tall but in a pot it rarely exceeds 30-40 cm. The stem is divided into 8 (4-9) ribs separated by more or less deep grooves. On the epidermis there are areas with rather large white dots, alternating with areas without dots. The spines are grouped in groups of 5-10, are 1-3 cm long, and are golden yellow in color. There are various forms, more or less glabrous or with spines of different shades of yellow. In the summer season, on the top of the stem, wonderful 3-5 cm sulphur-yellow flowers appear. The etymology of the name “star plant” (astro: star and phytum: plant) was inspired by the similarity of these plants to a star, especially in Astrophytum myriostigma.

Pedoclimatic requirements

It prefers drained soil without stagnant water, preferably with good limestone content. Grow in full sun and with good ventilation. Being a species with limited growth, it is suitable for being grown in pots. Cultivation in the ground or in flowerbeds can only be done in regions with a mild climate. A moderately rustic species, it resists short night frosts and minimum temperatures reaching -7°c, provided it is kept dry in a cold greenhouse or in verandas or on balconies sheltered from the rain.

Botanical Information

Botanical Name: Astrophytum ornatum

Family: Cactaceae