Astrophytum myriostigma (Bishop's Cap)


Botanical Information

FamilyCactaceae
GenusAstrophytum
Speciesmyriostigma
CategoryPerennials, Tropicals
OriginNorth-eastern Mexico.

Details

USDA Hardiness Zone8a - 11b
USDA Hardiness Ref.
Canadian Hardiness ZoneCool season protection under glass.
Canada Hardiness Ref.
RHS Hardiness ZoneH2
RHS Hardiness Ref.
Temperature (°C)-15 - 10
Temperature (°F)5 - 50
Height0.1 - 0.5 m
Spread0.1 m
GrowthSlow
Flowering PeriodJune, July

Description and Growing Information

General DescriptionA small perennial cacti, particularly distinct and fine-flowered that tends to hybridize freely in cultivation.
ShapeShortly columnar.
LandscapeSpecimen, patio and container plants.
PropagationPropagate by seed in early spring.
CultivationGrow in full sun, watering lightly in growing season but keeping dry when dormant.
PestsMealybugs.
Notable SpecimensRoyal Botanical Gardens, Burlington, Ontario, Canada. Centennial Conservatory, Thunder Bay, Ontario, Canada.
Bark/Stem DescriptionScales are usually dense, and rarely absent, with 3 - 5 (or occasionally more) ribs.
Flower DescriptionFlowers are 4 - 6 cm in diameter.
Fruit DescriptionFruit splits apically.
Colour DescriptionScales are chalky white. Flowers are usually entirely yellow (some variations have red or orange throats).

Photographs