Ariocarpus retusus var. furfuraceus - Double Head

Ariocarpus retusus var. furfuraceus

Massive double-head, old, mature specimen.
Measures 9"w x 5"h.  
Showcased here in one-of-a-kind handmade pottery (sold separately).  
Roots as shown.
Will be shipped bare root. 

Ariocarpus retusus var. furfuraceus, also known as the Seven Stars Cactus, is a distinct, slow-growing, geophytic cactus from the Ariocarpus genus, characterized by its prominent, triangular tubercles and abundant white wool, differing from typical A. retusus by these features, making it a robust and popular choice for collectors, often grown from seed for its relatively faster growth within the genus. It's a solitary, tuber-bodied plant, producing white to pink flowers in the fall, and requires well-draining soil, light shade to full sun, and minimal water in winter to prevent root rot

DESCRIPTION and CHARACTERISTICS:

• Appearance: Grey-green, flattened, globose stem with large, triangular tubercles (1.5-4 cm long) covered in white wool at their tips.
• Growth Habit: Solitary, geophytic (mostly underground), with a large taproot.
• Flowers: Diurnal (day-blooming), white to pinkish, 4-5 cm in diameter, appearing in the fall.
• Common Names: Seven Stars, Living Rock.
• Synonyms: Ariocarpus furfuraceus, Anhalonium furfuraceum.

CULTIVATION and CARE:

• Soil: Needs extremely well-draining, non-organic soil (e.g., clay mixed with gravel) to prevent root rot, its main threat.
• Watering: Water generously during the growing season but keep dry in late fall/winter; bottom watering helps keep wool clean.
• Light: Prefers light shade to full sun.
• Fertilizer: A weak, low-nitrogen fertilizer can encourage growth during the growing season.
• Hardiness: Hardy in USDA Zones 10a-11b (around 30°F to 50°F). 

PROPAGATION:

• From Seed: Easiest Ariocarpus to raise from seed, germinating in 10-25 days under warm, moist conditions (70-80°F).
• Maturity: Can take 5-10 years to reach flowering size