seeds of Astrophytum myriostigma

Astrophytum myriostigma is a species of cactus that is indigenous to the Central and North-eastern Mexico. Synonyms of the plant include Astrophytum columnare and Astrophytum depressum Lawr. Words in regular parlance used to describe this plant include Bishop’s hat and Bishop’s cap cactus. High concentrations of plant growth can be found in the highland areas of the regions above of Mexico. Astrophytum myriostigma is easily identifiable by its vertical ribs that give it its shape during its youthful phase. The vertical ribs number between 3 and 7 and increase in number the older the cactus gets. The more the vertical ribs increase in number, the more cylindrical the plant gets. Mature cacti have white flecks all over their surface and can grow to a height of 70-100 cm. Astrophytum myriostigma is a spineless cactus species. The flowering period occurs during early spring to ensure that the seeds are available once the summer rains come around. Nevertheless, cultivation might result in a different outcome where the flowers end up flowering in the summer. Flowers develop yellow-coloured tepals with reddish bases and have a diameter of 4 to 6 cm. The flowering process takes over 6 years to be initiated. Once pollinated, the fragrant flowers sprout hairy red-coloured fruit that is no more than 2.5 cm in diameter. Astrophytum myriostigma gets its name from the appearance of a traverse section of its stem which resembles a star in shape. Consequently, the star shape gives the plant a similar likeness to a Bishop’s cap. Astrophytum myriostigma is often used as an ornamental plant due to the beauty of its flowers. Bishop’s hat isn’t a formidable plant and great care should be taken when cultivating it. One should take steps to ensure there’s enough soil moisture while being cautious not to overwater them. The plant should also be protected from aphids and other pests.