Scientific Name
Astrophytum capricorne (A. Dietr.) Britton & Rose
Common Name(s)
Bishop's Cap, Bishop's Hat, Goat's Horn, Goat's Horn Cactus
Synonym(s)
Echinocactus capricornis
Scientific Classification
Family: Cactaceae
Subfamily: Cactoideae
Tribe: Cacteae
Genus: Astrophytum
Etymology
The specific epithet "capricorne" (pronounced "kap-ree-KOR-nee") means "like a goat's horn" and refers to the twisted or curved spines of this species, which resemble goat's horns.
Origin
Astrophytum capricorne is native to northern Mexico (Coahuila, Nuevo Leon, San Luis Potosí).
Description
Astrophytum capricorne is a strange-looking cactus with a solitary gray-green stem more or less covered with the typical white, woolly flecks and clusters of long, twisted or curved spines along the ribs. The stem slowly grows, reaching a height of 4 feet (1.2 m) and a diameter of 6 inches (15 cm). It usually has eight ribs and up to 10 spines per areole. The young specimens are spherical but soon become ovoid and eventually develop into columnar forms. The spines are grey to brown and can grow up to 3 inches (7.5 cm) long.
The sweet-smelling, yellow flowers with a red center appear in summer and can reach a diameter of 3 inches (7.5 cm). The reddish fruits are covered with flattened spines and can grow up to 1 inch (2.5 cm) in diameter.
Forms (not accepted varieties) of Astrophytum capricorne
- Astrophytum capricorne var. capricorne
- Astrophytum capricorne var. minus
- Astrophytum capricorne var. niveum
How to Grow and Care for Astrophytum capricorne
Hardiness: USDA hardiness zones 9a to 11b: from 20°F (-6.7°C) to 50°F (10°C).
Goat's Horn Cactus is a desert cactus that loves the sun and will grow well if provided with plenty of direct sunlight. However, young specimens should be provided with indirect sunlight; insufficient light results in poor growth and an unnatural shape.
Use soil with good drainage, as this species is prone to rot.
This cactus thrives in average room temperatures between 60°F and 75°F (16°C and 24°C) from spring until fall. Then, from late fall to late winter, give them a winter rest at temperatures between 45°F and 50°F (7°C and 10°C).
Average indoor humidity is fine for the Goat's Horn Cactus. Provide good air ventilation for healthy growth.
During the active growth period, water the Goat's Horn Cactus moderately, but allow the top 3/4 of the mixture to dry out thoroughly between waterings. Give only enough water to prevent the mixture from drying out during the resting period.
Learn more at How to Grow and Care for Astrophytum.
Links
- Back to genus Astrophytum
- Succupedia: Browse succulents by Scientific Name, Common Name, Genus, Family, USDA Hardiness Zone, Origin, or cacti by Genus
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