Why will I love it?
The Astrophytum asterias is one of my favourite plants; I find its form intriguing and beautiful. It is a flat barrel cactus without the typical covering of spines. Instead it is adorned with a rare feature: a tiny speckled tuft of hairs. Its allure is amplified by large yellow flowers, with orange throats often dwarfing the plant itself. Its name is inspired by its resemblance to a sea urchin without spines.
Light or shade?
It thrives in bright direct/indirect light, soaking in the sun’s energy to display its full natural splendour.
Where should I put it?
Welcome your sea urchin cactus into your home by placing it on a south-facing windowsill or a brightly lit nightstand. Its diminutive size ensures it will fit in any space, however small – so there will be no unexpected pricks when you switch on your bedside lamp.
How do I keep it alive?
Astrophytums are notoriously prone to root rot. To avoid this, plant in free-draining cactus and succulent soil and make sure your planter has a drainage hole. During its growth period (April to September) water weekly, and then from October to March refrain from watering. This period of dryness mimics its native desert habitat, ensuring longevity and summer blooms.
Did you know …
In the vast expanse of southern Texas/Mexico desert, these cacti stand alone, their solitary cylindrical and star-shaped forms adding to the natural beauty of their surroundings.
Other common names for it are the star cactus and sand dollar cactus. The Astrophytum genus comprises a handful of official species, but these have many different cultivars. Some lack spines, while others have prominent ones.
