Bishop's cap cactus - Astrophytum myriostigma (Care, Characteristics, Flower, Images)

Bishop's cap cactus

Also known as: Bishop's hat

This star cactus has white, hair-like projections rather than spines, and produces sweet-smelling yellow flowers when mature. The genus name, "Astrophytum," which literally means "star plant," was given for obvious reasons. Bishop's cap cactus is considered very easy to grow in containers both indoors and out.

Scientific classification

Species

Bishop's cap cactus (Astrophytum myriostigma)

Pinks, cacti, and allies

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Perennial

Lifespan

Succulent

Plant Type

Spring, Summer, Fall

Bloom Time

23 cm

Plant Height

30 cm

Spread

Green, Silver

Leaf Color

Red, Green

Fruit Color

Yellow, White

Flower Color

Green, White

Stem Color

Evergreen

Leaf type

20 - 38 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Images of Bishop's cap cactus

Distribution of Bishop's cap cactus

Distribution Map

Bishop's cap cactus is a plant native to the arid regions of North America. Despite its specific native habitat, bishop's cap cactus has been successfully cultivated in various locales with suitable climates. Through cultivation, it has expanded beyond its original range, finding its way into gardens and collections in temperate zones across the globe.

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Introduced

No species reported

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Habitat

Lime formations

Hemisphere Trend Curve

Northern

Sorthern

Care Guide for Bishop's cap cactus

Every 3 weeks

Water

Full sun

Sunlight

20 - 38 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Succulent & Cactus Soil

Soil Type

Water: Adapted to arid environments, bishop's cap cactus exhibits high drought tolerance and requires watering every three weeks. It thrives in well-draining soil and benefits from thorough watering followed by complete drying. As an indoor plant, bishop's cap cactus flourishes in low-humidity conditions with minimal maintenance.

Fertilize: Fertilize bishop's cap cactus with balanced cacti food every 6-8 weeks in spring and summer, reducing to quarterly in fall, and suspending in winter. Dilute fertilizer to half strength, apply to moist soil to avoid root shock, and adjust based on bishop's cap cactus's growth cycle.

Pruning: Bishop's cap cactus needs minimal pruning. Regularly remove wilted flowers and dead branches to direct nutrients towards healthy growth.

Propagation: Bishop's cap cactus features a star-shaped structure with a smooth, ribbed surface. Propagation is best achieved by sowing seeds in well-drained soil with warmth and moderate moisture. Avoid overwatering to prevent rot, and handle seedlings gently for optimal growth into mature cacti.

Repotting: Bishop's cap cactus should be repotted every 2-3 years in a slightly larger, well-draining container. Spring is the best time to repot. Afterward, water sparingly and ensure ample sunlight for optimal adaptation and growth.

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