Astrophytum myriostigma cv. Onzuka Kikko

Astrophytum myriostigma cv. Onzuka Kikko - Very Rare

You will receive this exact, amazing, huge specimen.  Only 1 available.
Measures 6" tall above the soil line x 5" wide.
Roots as shown.
Showcased here in one-of-a-kind handmade pottery (sold separately).
Will be shipped bare root.

Astrophytum myriostigma cv. Onzuka Kikko is a highly sought-after cactus cultivar, prized by collectors for its distinctive architectural features. This Japanese-bred plant combines the strong white mottling of the 'Onzuka' variety with the geometric, pointed ribs of the 'Kikko' form, creating a unique, turtle-shell-like appearance.

Characteristics

• Appearance: This cultivar has a pentagonal to almost spherical stem that is spineless. The white, fuzzy flecks typical of Astrophytum are heavily pronounced, a trait inherited from the 'Onzuka' parent. The 'Kikko' lineage gives it large, pointed tubercles (raised bumps) along the edges of its ribs, which create a striking, saw-toothed or tortoise-shell-like design.
• Growth habit: Young seedlings resemble a standard Bishop's Cap (A. myriostigma). It takes 3 to 7 years for the characteristic "saw teeth" to develop fully. It is a slow-growing plant that can eventually reach a diameter of 5–10 cm and a height of 22–40 cm.
• Flowers: The cactus produces beautiful, pale-yellow, silk-like flowers in the spring and summer.

Care and cultivation

• Light: This cactus requires abundant, bright light, but prefers some protection from intense afternoon sun to prevent sunburn. A south-facing window with a sheer curtain or a partially shaded outdoor spot is ideal.
• Soil: Use a very fast-draining, mineral-based soil mix. Regular store-bought cactus soil can be amended with pumice, perlite, or granite to improve drainage. This prevents the root rot that can occur from overly wet soil.
• Water: Adopt a "soak and dry" method. During the spring and summer growing season, water thoroughly, then allow the soil to dry out completely before watering again. Reduce watering significantly in the fall and cease completely during the winter dormancy period.
• Fertilizer: During the growing season, a low-nitrogen fertilizer can encourage faster growth. If you want to encourage flowering, use a half-strength, high-phosphorus fertilizer once a month during the spring and early summer.
• Temperature: This cactus is relatively hardy, but thrives best when protected from extreme cold. During winter dormancy, it should be kept perfectly dry at cooler temperatures, ideally between 40–60° F (5–15° C). It can tolerate brief periods down to 20° F (-6.7° C) if kept dry.
• Propagation: The 'Onzuka Kikko' is primarily propagated from seed. These plants do not produce offsets reliably, and the distinctive traits of this cultivar must be bred selectively.
• Repotting: Repot at the beginning of the growing season to give the plant more space. Use a well-draining mineral mix and take care not to overwater immediately after repotting.