Astrophytum Myriostigma var. Columnare f. minima

Astrophytum Myriostigma var. Columnare f. minima

You will receive a specimen similar to the one shown here.
Measures approximately 5.5" wide.
This is a degraft with no roots as of yet (see photo).
Showcased here in Italian glazed handmade planter (sold separately).
Will be shipped bare root. 

Astrophytum myriostigma var. columnare f. minima is a diminutive, highly sought-after cactus valued for its small size and pronounced columnar shape. It is a variant of the Bishop's Cap cactus, known for its slow growth and spineless, geometric form. 

Appearance

• Form: The cactus is slender and distinctly columnar, even in its youth. Unlike the standard A. myriostigma, which can also become columnar, this form stays much smaller and more delicate.
• Size: This form is very small, or minima, as its name implies. While the species can reach up to 2 feet in height, this variant remains a very compact plant, rarely exceeding 5 cm in diameter.
• Body: The green stem is typically covered in the species' characteristic flecking of tiny white, woolly dots, though some forms, like 'nudum,' lack these markings.
• Ribs: Like the standard Bishop's Cap, the plant usually has five prominent ribs, which give it a star-like shape when viewed from above.
• Flowers: Flowers are smaller than those of the typical A. myriostigma, but they are the same pale yellow color, sometimes with a reddish or orange center. They appear from the apex of the cactus during spring and summer. 

Care and Cultivation

• Light: Requires bright, indirect light to full sun. In extremely hot climates, some afternoon shade is recommended to prevent sunburn.
• Water: Water sparingly and infrequently. Allow the soil to dry out completely between waterings to prevent root rot, to which this species is very sensitive. During winter, reduce or stop watering entirely.
• Soil: Use a well-draining mineral-based soil mix with very little organic matter. A mix of perlite, pumice, and grit is ideal. Adding limestone can help mimic its native calcareous soil.
• Temperature: The cactus thrives in warm conditions but can tolerate temperatures down to about 20°F (-6.7°C) for short periods if kept dry. A minimum indoor temperature of 50–55°F is recommended.
• Fertilizer: This slow-growing cactus has low nutrient requirements. A low-nitrogen cactus fertilizer can be applied during the summer growing season.
• Propagation: Propagation is almost always done by seed. 

Rarity and Status

This cultivar is particularly prized by collectors due to its small, elegant form. Because it is slow-growing and has a petite stature, it is well-suited for container growing, bonsai, and other creative displays. While it can be grown on its own roots, it is sometimes found grafted to a rootstock to speed up its growth.