Last updated on August 25th, 2023 at 11:43 am
Astrophytum myriostigma is a species of cactus native to the northern part of Mexico. This succulent plant requires little water and minimal soil, making it an excellent choice for xeriscaping or container gardening. Astrophytum plants propagate from stem cuttings in late fall when they are fully mature – this is when they are in their dormant period, which lasts from October to March.
Astrophytum plants propagate easily by cutting off a piece of the stem and planting it into moist soil or sand with some added peat moss for increased moisture retention. Cut at least an inch below where new growth begins – this will allow your plant to sprout new roots from the bottom, which are necessary for long-term survival.
To ensure that your cuttings root properly, water them with a mixture of one part bleach to ten parts water once every two weeks until they are well rooted in their pots or garden bed. Astrophytum myriostigma require very little care and attention – just make sure you always provide adequate light and water, and they’ll thrive for years to come.
Origin Astrophytum Myriostigma ‘Bishop’s Cap Cactus’
The genus Astrophytum is native to northern Mexico. The species, myriostigma, was the first of this genus in cultivation and remains popular today because it tolerates such a wide range of conditions.
How to propagate Astrophytum Myriostigma ‘Bishop’s Cap Cactus’
Astrophytum plants propagate easily by cutting off a piece of the stem and pushing it into moist soil or sand with some added peat moss for increased moisture retention. Cut at least an inch below where new growth begins – this will allow your plant to sprout roots from the bottom, which are necessary for long-term survival. Keep the plant well watered and provide adequate light, and it will thrive for years to come.
General care information on Astrophytum Myriostigma ‘Bishop’s Cap Cactus’
Light requirements
Astrophytum myriostigma needs a minimum of six hours per day. The best results will be achieved with eight to ten hours, but it is not necessary for them to receive this much light. Astrophytum myriostigma are tolerant plants and actually do better in low-light conditions than they would if they were in bright light.
Soil/potting mix
Astrophytum myriostigma grows best in a cactus potting mix. The soil should be more coarse and well-draining than normal orchid potting mediums. Astrophytum myriostigma thrives in the same type of soil that is used for most succulents, which includes sand with some coarse materials mixed in.
Fertilizer
Astrophytum myriostigma plants are not heavy feeders. They will grow and develop well with a balanced fertilizer program consisting of weekly applications of an organic or liquid, granular, a slow-release product designed for succulent plants. Optimum performance can be achieved by fertilizing your plant every seven days during its active growing period.
Watering
Astrophytum myriostigma plants like to be watered thoroughly and allowed to dry out between waterings. When grown outdoors in hot, arid climates with low humidity levels (less than 30% relative humidity), your plant will require more frequent watering.
Frequency of watering:
- Weekly during the active growth phase
- Daily when growing in hot, arid climates with low humidity levels (less than 30% relative humidity)
Amount of watering:
Thoroughly water plant and allow to dry out between watering.
When growing in succulent terrariums or other areas where plants are not exposed to direct sun exposure for extended periods of time, the frequency of watering may be reduced.
Temperature
Astrophytum should be grown at temperatures of between 60 and 80 degrees Fahrenheit. Above 85 degrees, the plant will begin to show signs of distress such as leaf wilting or curling up in an attempt to protect itself from overheating. When nighttime temperatures drop below 50 degrees F, it is recommended that you put your Astrophytum in a cool environment, such as an unheated garage, or buried under blankets to give it one more degree of warmth.
Humidity
Astrophytum should be watered frequently, but not over-watered. The soil should dry out in between waterings and the humidity needs to stay at 60% or higher for it to thrive.
Repotting
Astrophytum should be repotted every two to three years. The plant will need a container with drainage holes and well-drained, potting soil that is rich in organic material.
The best time of day to do this is during the winter months when it’s cooler so you don’t have an impact on the plant’s temperature.
Pruning
While the plant spikes during its active growth period are still alive, you can cut them off to make more room for new shoots.
It’s important not to over-prune as it will inhibit flowering from taking place and may cause a reduction in the size of your plants.
Hardiness zone
This plant is hardy in zones 6 through 9.
Toxicity
The sap of this plant is toxic to people, and should not be ingested.
Pests and diseases
There are a few pests and diseases that this plant might be susceptible to, such as spider mites and mealybugs.
