Scientific Name
Astrophytum capricorne var. minus Frič
Accepted Scientific Name
Astrophytum capricorne (A. Dietr.) Britton & Rose
Common Name(s)
Goat's Horns
Synonym(s)
Astrophytum capricorne f. minus, Echinocactus 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 cactus with a solitary spherical stem with white, woolly spots and clusters of long twisted or curved spines along the ribs. The stem can grow up to 5 inches (12.5 cm) tall and up to 3.2 inches (8 cm) in diameter. It is smaller and usually has fewer and smaller spots than Astrophytum capricorne var. capricorne.
The sweet-smelling flowers are yellow with a red or orange throat, measure up to 4 inches (10 cm) in diameter, and appear at the top of the stem in summer, often covering the whole stem like an umbrella. The fruits are reddish, covered with flattened spines, and contain numerous dark brown or black seeds.
Origin
Astrophytum capricorne var. minus is native to Mexico. It is not accepted as a variety and is treated as a small-growing form of Astrophytum capricorne.
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 with direct sunlight. 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 thrives 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).
Average 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.
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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