Scientific Name
Astrophytum ornatum (DC.) Britton & Rose
Synonym(s)
Echinocactus ornatus
Common Name(s)
Bishop's Cap, Monk's Hood, Monk's Hood Cactus, Star Plant
Scientific Classification
Family: Cactaceae
Subfamily: Cactoideae
Tribe: Cacteae
Genus: Astrophytum
Etymology
The specific epithet "ornatum" (pronounced "or-NAH-tum") means "adorned" or "decorated" and refers to the distinctive speckled pattern and ornamental appearance of this species.
Origin
Astrophytum ornatum is endemic to the Central Plateau of Mexico.
Description
Astrophytum ornatum is a small cactus with a solitary stem that has 5 to 10 straight or spirally arranged ribs lined with clusters of spines. This species is the largest and tallest in the genus. The stem can grow up to 4 feet (1.2 m) in height and 1 foot (30 cm) in diameter, globular when young but becomes somewhat columnar with age. It is greyish-green to dark green with numerous white, woolly flakes for protection from the sun. The needle-like spines are yellow at first, later brown, and finally grey. Each areole bears 5 to 11 radial spines and one longer central spine. The radial spines can measure up to 8 inches (2 cm) in length.
The flowers are canary yellow, appear at the stem apex in summer, and can reach up to 3 inches (7.5 cm) in length.
How to Grow and Care for Astrophytum ornatum
Hardiness: USDA hardiness zones 9b to 11b: from 25°F (-3.9°C) to 50°F (10°C).
Astrophytums are not vigorous plants and require considerable 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 avoid overwatering to prevent 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 best results, allowing them to grow into the impressive specimens for which the genus is known. Protect your hands when repotting, as the plant's stiff spikes can cause injury. Lift the plant out of its current pot all at once, then replace it in a larger pot and backfill with soil.
See 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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