Shangri-Ha Cactus Ranch
Astrophytum myriostigma f. variegata
Astrophytum myriostigma f. variegata
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Astrophytum myriostigma f. variegata
You will receive this exact specimen.
Measures 2.25" wide x 2" tall.
Showcased here in one-of-a-kind handmade pottery (sold separately).
Roots as shown.
Will be shipped bare root.
Astrophytum myriostigma f. variegata is a captivating cactus cherished by enthusiasts for its striking appearance and relatively straightforward care.
Appearance and characteristics
· Shape: Small, globular to low-domed shape, usually 1 to 2 inches (2.5–6 cm) tall and 2 to 6 inches (5–15 cm) in diameter.
· Ribs: Divided into 7–10 sections, or ribs, that can be vaguely triangular in shape.
· Areoles: Woolly tufts of hairs, called trichomes, located in the middle of each rib, giving the cactus a textured, speckled appearance.
· Color: Greenish-brown and may appear speckled from the white scales (trichomes) covering it.
· Flowers: Yellow with orange/red centers, typically funnel-shaped, appearing at the center of the plant and blooming during the spring and summer.
· Fruit: Green to pink oval berries densely covered with spines and dull-white wool, becoming dry and finally breaking off at or near the base (not opening above the base).
Native habitat and hardiness
· Origin: Native to the Rio Grande Valley of Texas and certain Mexican states, thriving in rocky, well-drained desert and semi-desert soils.
· Habitat: Prefers hot, dry conditions with high temperatures and low rainfall.
· Hardiness Zones: Suitable for USDA zones 9-11, tolerating brief periods at 20°F (-5°C), but preferring warmer temperatures.
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Identification
· Origin: This cultivar is a variegated form of the Astrophytum myriostigma, also known as the bishop's cap cactus, which is native to Mexico.
· Appearance: What sets this cactus apart is its mesmerizing patterns of yellow, cream, and green on its smooth stem. The colors are arranged in patches, stripes or sectors, making each specimen unique. The stems are typically green, yellow and orange, covered with minute white hairy scales that give it a silvery-grey appearance. It can be globular to cylindrical, reaching up to 60 cm tall and 10-20 cm in diameter.
· Growth: It's a slow-growing cactus with a distinct star-shaped transverse section, resembling a starfish or a bishop's mitre, hence its common name.
· Flowers: Mature plants produce large, glossy yellow flowers, typical of the Astrophytum myriostigma species, usually in the summer, depending on growing conditions.
Care instructions
· Light: Requires bright, indirect light or intense artificial light to thrive and maintain its variegation. Young plants are more sensitive to direct sun, so protect them from scorching midday sun.
· Watering: Water moderately during the growing season, allowing the soil to dry completely between waterings. During the winter, when the plant is dormant, significantly reduce or stop watering to prevent root rot.
· Soil: Use a well-draining cactus mix, preferably a mineral substrate, with little organic material, consisting of potting soil, coarse sand, and perlite or gravel. Consider adding some limestone, as they are native to calcareous soils.
· Hardiness: These delicate plants cannot tolerate subfreezing temperatures below 19.4°F (-7°C). Bring them indoors if you live in a colder climate.
· Fertilizing: Fertilize sparingly, as they are slow growers with low fertilizer needs.
· Humidity: They thrive in low humidity environments.









