Astrophytum myriostigma (Bishop’s Cap)

Widely grown, Astrophytum myriostigma (Bishop’s Cap) is a spineless cactus, often solitary, forming a spherical or shortly columnar, chalk-white or silvery-gray stem. Usually adorned with prominent 5 ribs, it forms a perfect star shape giving the plant the appearance of a bishop’s miter, hence the common name. Over time, the number of ribs can increase to 8 or even 10. Blooming intermittently throughout the warm months from the end of winter to the start of autumn, sweet-scented, funnel-shaped, light yellow flowers, 2 in. across (5 cm), appear at the tip of the stem. Each flower blooms for about 2 days. However, they bloom in succession, so the flowering season can last for months. Bishop’s Cap may take up to six years to flower. Easy to grow, this remarkable cactus is perfect for containers. It can be grown as a houseplant but also grows well outdoors in frost-free climates. Protect from cold, as this species is frost sensitive and only hardy to 23°F (-5°C) for brief periods.

• Recipient of the prestigious Award of Garden Merit of the Royal Horticultural Society.
• Grows up to 8-40 in. tall (20-100 cm) and 4-8 in. wide (10-20 cm).
• Easily grown in sharply drained, poor, slightly alkaline soil in full sun to light shade. Lightly water in the growing season. Make sure you let the soil dry out between waterings. No water should ever be allowed to stand around the roots. Keep the plant dry in winter. Drought tolerant.
• If grown under glass, plant in cactus compost with added limestone chippings, in bright filtered light.
• No serious pest or disease issues. Keep an eye out for mealybugs.
• Propagate by seed sown at 70°F (21°C) in early spring.
• Native to northern Mexico where it is found growing on stony, calcareous soils on scrubby alluvial plains on steep, east, or west (and southwest) facing slopes.