Astrophytum Species, Monk's Hood, Star Plant
Astrophytumornatum

Family: Cactaceae (kak-TAY-see-ee)
Genus: Astrophytum (ass-troh-FY-tum)
Species: ornatum (or-NAH-tum)

Synonym:Astrophytum ornatum var. ornatum

Category
Cactus and Succulents

Water Requirements
Drought-tolerant; suitable for xeriscaping
Average Water Needs; Water regularly; do not overwater

Sun Exposure
Sun to Partial Shade

Foliage

Foliage Color

Height
12-18 in. (30-45 cm)

Spacing
6-9 in. (15-22 cm)

Hardiness
USDA Zone 9b: to -3.8 °C (25 °F)
USDA Zone 10a: to -1.1 °C (30 °F)
USDA Zone 10b: to 1.7 °C (35 °F)

Where to Grow

Danger
Plant has spines or sharp edges; use extreme caution when handling

Bloom Color
Bright Yellow

Bloom Characteristics

Bloom Size

Bloom Time
Mid Spring
Late Spring/Early Summer
Mid Summer
Late Summer/Early Fall

Other details

Soil pH requirements
5.1 to 5.5 (strongly acidic)
5.6 to 6.0 (acidic)

Patent Information
Non-patented

Propagation Methods
From woody stem cuttings
Allow cut surface to callous over before planting
From seed; sow indoors before last frost
From seed; direct sow after last frost
From seed; germinate in vitro in gelatin, agar or other medium

Seed Collecting
Allow unblemished fruit to ripen; clean and dry seeds
Unblemished fruit must be significantly overripe before harvesting seed; clean and dry seeds
Properly cleaned, seed can be successfully stored