Scientific Name
Astrophytum myriostigma 'Onzuka'
Synonym(s)
Astrophytum 'Onzuka'
Scientific Classification
Family: Cactaceae
Subfamily: Cactoideae
Tribe: Cacteae
Genus: Astrophytum
Origin
Astrophytum myriostigma 'Onzuka' is one of the most striking cultivars of Astrophytum myriostigma. It was selected in Hiroshima, Japan, around 1974-1977 and named for Mr. Tsutomu Onzuka, who reportedly raised this cultivar.
Description
Astrophytum myriostigma 'Onzuka' is an attractive, slow-growing cactus with a green, solitary stem heavily marked with white spots. The stem is globular to short cylindrical and usually has five ribs, and the markings vary from plant to plant.
The glossy yellow flowers are funnel-shaped and appear from the areoles at the tip of the stem from spring to fall.
How to Grow and Care for Astrophytum myriostigma 'Onzuka'
Hardiness: USDA hardiness zones 10a to 11b: from 30°F (-1.1°C) to 50°F (10°C).
Astrophytums are not vigorous plants, requiring a lot of patience to reach their full potential. Keep watering and feeding them regularly during the growing season, and repot them annually to provide space for their development. They need a temperate, dry winter, and should be watered sparingly to avoid root rot. They will develop marvelous flowers if given sufficient care once they reach maturity. Watch out for common cactus pests like aphids and scale, as well. These can often be taken care of by a good, eco-friendly pesticide or wiped away with a cloth.
Repot regularly to help them develop. Astrophytums should be repotted at the beginning of the growing season for optimal results, allowing them to grow into the impressive specimens for which the genus is renowned. Due to their stiff spikes, protect your hands before repotting. Lift the plant out all at once, and then replace it in a larger pot, backfilling with soil. Avoid overwatering or overfeeding newly repotted cacti, as these disturbances can be particularly hard on them.
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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