El Astrophytum asterias, Also called star cacti o peyotillo, is one of the most appreciated species for its perfect symmetry and its unique absence of thorns. Its rounded shape, the delicate texture of its mottled surface and the beauty of its yellow flowers with an orange center making it a unique ornamental plant within the world of collectible cacti.
What is Astrophytum asterias?
Native to northeastern Mexico and southern Texas, Astrophytum asterias is a small, rounded and flattened cactus, without thorns, which stands out for its marked ribs and white spots reminiscent of the spokes of a star. Their adult size is typically 6 to 15 cm in diameter and up to 5 cm tall. In nature, they tend to grow semi-buried, blending into their surroundings to avoid detection by herbivores. Their longevity is another notable characteristic, as they can live for many decades with proper care.
- It does not have true spines., but small soft hairs on the areolas.
- Its flowering is in spring and summer, with flowers several centimeters long that are born from the top.
- Es protected and threatened in their original habitat due to illegal harvesting and environmental destruction.
Botanical characteristics and varieties
El globose body The Astrophytum asterias has between six and eight rounded ribs, each adorned with woolly areoles arranged in a straight line, reinforcing its symmetry. These areoles do not produce spines, which distinguishes it from most cacti. Its color varies from grayish green to greenish with distinctive white markings. Reproduction is exclusively by seed, as this cactus rarely produces offspring.
One of his most famous varieties is the Superkabuto, with denser white speckles and an even more spectacular appearance. There are also nudum forms, which are less speckled and have more uniform tones.
Flowering and peculiarities
The flowers of Astrophytum asterias can exceed the width of the stem and have numerous petals. yellow with an orange or reddish centerThey usually sprout when the plant reaches 2 cm in diameter and remains healthy and mature, although it can take several years to flower. Each flower lasts several days, and the plant can bloom several times during the warm season.
Location, light and temperature
Astrophytum asterias needs plenty of light, but requires protection from the direct and intense midday sun. Outdoors, it is ideal to place it under semi-shade or exposed to the morning sun. In interior, should be placed next to a very bright window, preferably facing south or east. The optimal temperature for its development ranges between 20 and 35 ° CIt can withstand high temperatures, but must be protected from frost (it can withstand temperatures down to 5°C, but intense cold and humidity can seriously damage it).
Substrate and planting
To ensure your well-being, it is essential to have a Very mineral substrate, porous and with excellent drainageThe ideal mix can be:
- 50% volcanic gravel or coarse washed river sand
- 30% perlite or pumice
- 20% specific soil for cacti
You can add some crushed charcoal to prevent fungus. When planting or transplanting, disinfect pots and substrates, and even the seeds if you're sowing. Containers should allow for aeration and avoid waterlogging. To learn how to prepare the perfect substrate, visit our article. How to plant cacti correctly.
Irrigation and fertilization
Irrigation should be moderate and is only done when the substrate has completely dried. In spring and summer, watering every 15-20 days is sufficient; in autumn and winter, watering is reduced to once a month or can even be stopped. It is important not to wet the plant's body to avoid rot. When the skin wrinkles, it indicates that the plant needs water. To learn more about watering and fertilization techniques, check out our article. How to prevent cactus diseases.
Fertilization is not essential, but if it is done, a fertilizer low in nitrogen and richer in potassium and phosphorus should be used, always in spring and summer.
Pests, diseases and common problems
Astrophytum asterias is sensitive to:
- Mealybugs and red spider: They usually settle in the areoles and roots, causing deformities and rot.
- Aphids, snails and slugs: damage the most tender tissues.
- Rot: due to excess water or poor drainage.
Preventing these pests is easier if you use sterile substrate, clean containers and controlled watering. In case of pests, we recommend consulting our article on .
Propagation and conservation status
La propagation of Astrophytum asterias is done only by seeds. These germinate in trays with a very porous substrate, under controlled humidity and semi-shade, and can take between 7 and 15 days. It is crucial to purchase seeds from legal sources and plants from certified nurseries, as it is a protected species by Mexican legislation and is classified as vulnerable due to illegal collection and habitat loss.
Spineless cacti: what distinguishes them?
The Astrophytum asterias is the quintessential example of a spineless cactus. What differentiates them from common succulents is the presence of areoles, from which flowers, buds, or, in other species, spines emerge. Spineless cacti also belong to the Cactaceae family. There are other genera that have evolved without spines, such as Lophophora (peyote), Astrophytum myriostigma o rhipsalis. They all share the quality of being easy to handle and admire without fear of punctures, but they retain the resistance and beauty typical of cacti.
Growing an Astrophytum asterias is to enter the fascinating world of rare cacti, where symmetry, delicacy and Unique features The uniqueness of each specimen makes it a treasure for any collector. Its slow growth and the need for a controlled environment reward it with stunning flowers and the peace of mind of caring for a unique species without the danger of thorns.