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

Genus of 4-6 species of slow-growing cacti, present in the dry and arid areas of the United States and northern Mexico. The etymology of

Botanical Information

Botanical name "star plant" (astro: star and phytum: plant) was inspired by the resemblance of these plants to a star, especially in astrophytum myriostigma. Astrophytum ornatum is a succulent plant with a globular and 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 divided by more or less deep furrows. On the epidermis there are areas with rather large white dots, alternating with areas without dots. The spines are gathered in groups of 5-10 and are 1-3 cm long, golden yellow in colour. There are different forms that are more or less hairless or with spines of different shades of yellow. In the summer season, wonderful 3-5 cm sulfur yellow flowers appear at the top of the stem.

Pedoclimatic needs

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

Botanical Information

Botanical Name: Astrophytum ornatum

Family: Cactaceae