Scientific Name
Astrophytum capricorne var. minus Frič
Common Name(s)
Goat's Horns
Synonym(s)
Astrophytum capricorne var. minor, Astrophytum capricornis f. minor, Echinocactus capricornis var. minor
Scientific Classification
Family: Cactaceae
Subfamily: Cactoideae
Tribe: Cacteae
Genus: Astrophytum
Description
Astrophytum capricorne var. minus is a small growing variety of Astrophytum capricorne. The stem is up to 5 inches (12.5 cm) tall, up to 3.2 inches (8 cm) in diameter, and usually with fewer and smaller white dots. The spines are thin and twisted. Flowers are yellow with a red or orange throat, up to 4 inches (10 cm) in diameter, and cover the whole stem like an umbrella.
Hardiness
USDA hardiness zone 9a to 11b: from 20 °F (−6.7 °C) to 50 °F (+10 °C).
How to Grow and Care
Goat's Horn Cactus is a desert cactus. Therefore it loves the sun and will grow well if provided with plenty of direct sunshine. However, young specimens should be provided with indirect sunlight. Inadequate light could result in poor growth and unnatural shape.
Use alkaline, lime-based soil with good drainage as this species is rot prone.
This cactus thrive in average room temperatures between 60 and 75 °F (16 and 24 °C ) from spring until fall. Then, from late fall to late winter, give them a rest at temperatures between 45 and 50 °F (7 and 10 °C).
Normal indoor humidity is fine for Goat's Horn Cactus. Provide good air ventilation for healthy growth.
During the active growth period, water this cactus moderately but allow the top 3/4 of the mixture to dry out thoroughly between waterings. During the rest period, give only enough water to prevent the mixture from drying out.
See more at How to Grow and Care for a Goat's Horn Cactus.
Origin
This variety is native to Mexico.
Links
- Back to genus Astrophytum
- Succulentopedia: Browse succulents by Scientific Name, Common Name, Genus, Family, USDA Hardiness Zone, Origin, or cacti by Genus
