Bishop's Cap
astrophytum myriostigma
Also known as: ["Bishop's Hat","Bishop's Mitre"]
Overview
A spineless cactus with a distinctive ribbed, cylindrical shape resembling a bishop's mitre or cap.
Benefits & Perks
["drought tolerant","aesthetic foliage","rare/collector’s item"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Caryophyllales |
| Family: | Cactaceae |
| Genus: | Astrophytum |
| Botanical Name: | Astrophytum myriostigma |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Succulents & Cacti
- Suitable Location: indoor pot near bright window or outdoor in well-drained, sunny location
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–35°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"9–11"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining.
- Soil Type: Well-draining cactus mix with added perlite or coarse sand for aeration.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: very low
- Toughness Level: high
- Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically annually or when damage is observed.
- Pruning Intensity: Light pruning only.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 6–8 hours daily. Can tolerate direct sunlight but acclimate gradually to avoid sunburn. Adjust exposure based on season and intensity.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate to direct sun slowly over weeks; provide shade during peak summer hours; rotate plant regularly for even growth.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Avoid intense midday sun; rotate plant weekly; provide filtered light in summer.
Watering
every 7–10 days during growing season, every 3–4 weeks in winter
Water deeply but infrequently; ensure soil dries fully between waterings; avoid waterlogging during dormancy.
Soil
fast-draining cactus mix with added perlite or pumice
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Ensure soil dries quickly; avoid heavy potting mixes; amend with gritty materials.
Temperature
Prefers warm temperatures (65–85°F or 18–29°C) during active growth. Tolerates mild cold but requires protection below 40°F (4°C).
Protect from frost; avoid sudden temperature swings; ensure good air circulation.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during active growth with diluted cactus fertilizer
Dilute fertilizer to prevent burn; fertilize only during active growth; avoid over-fertilization.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or offsets.Offsets are the most reliable method for home growers.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Select a healthy offset or cutting.
- Let it callus for 1–2 days.
- Plant in well-draining medium.
- Keep moist but not wet.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm (70–80°F or 21–27°C), high humidity (60–70%), and bright indirect light.
Medium
Well-draining mix of cactus soil and perlite (1:1 ratio).
Hormone
Optional but recommended for faster rooting.
Timeline
Roots may form in 4–8 weeks; establishment takes 3–6 months.
Tools Needed
Clean knife or scissors, rooting hormone (optional), small pots, well-draining soil mix.
Quick Tips
Use offsets for higher success; ensure callusing before planting; maintain humidity for cuttings.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Carefully remove dead or damaged sections with clean cuts.
Pruning Plan
Minimal pruning required. Focus on removing dead or damaged tissue to maintain health and aesthetics.
Tools
Sterilized knife or pruning shears.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; remove only dead/damaged parts; avoid over-pruning; clean up debris.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before the active growing season begins.
Pot Size
One size up (e.g., from 4-inch to 5-inch pot).
Method
Gently remove the plant; trim any dead roots; place in a slightly larger pot with fresh cactus soil; ensure good drainage.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when the plant outgrows its container. Necessary to refresh soil and check root health.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot size; use fresh cactus mix; ensure drainage; handle roots carefully.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil dryness; water deeply; ensure drainage; adjust seasonally; avoid wetting plant body.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the soil base, avoiding the plant's body to prevent rot. Ensure water penetrates the root zone deeply but drains freely. Water in the morning to allow foliage to dry before nightfall.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water thoroughly during active growing season (spring/summer), allowing soil to dry completely between waterings. Reduce watering frequency to once every 4–6 weeks in fall and cease watering entirely in winter. Adjust based on temperature and humidity.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite, coarse sand, or pumice to commercial cactus soil to enhance drainage and aeration.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Chlorosis, stunted growth, or softening of the stem in cold; wilting, scorching, or sunken patches in excessive heat.
Cold Stress
Low temperatures slow metabolic processes, making the plant vulnerable to root rot and fungal infections if soil remains moist.
Solution: Move to a warmer location; ensure soil is dry; provide frost protection if temperatures drop below 40°F (4°C).
Hot Stress
Excessive heat can cause dehydration, sunburn, and stress, especially if combined with inadequate water or intense sunlight.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase air circulation; water carefully if soil is dry.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use cactus-specific fertilizer; dilute properly; fertilize monthly in growing season; stop in winter.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, low-nitrogen cactus fertilizer diluted to half strength. Apply monthly during spring and summer, skipping fall and winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicAstrophytum myriostigma is not considered toxic to cats. There are no documented cases of toxicity in felines from exposure to this plant.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Dogs
Non-toxicAstrophytum myriostigma is not considered toxic to dogs. There are no documented cases of toxicity in canines from exposure to this plant.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Humans
Non-toxicAstrophytum myriostigma is not considered toxic to humans. It has no known adverse physiological effects when handled or ingested in typical amounts.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How often should I water Astrophytum myriostigma?
A: Water sparingly, only when the soil is completely dry, typically every 2-4 weeks depending on climate and season.
Q: Does this cactus need full sun?
A: Yes, it thrives in bright, direct sunlight but can tolerate partial shade.
Q: Why are the ribs turning yellow?
A: Yellowing may indicate overwatering or root rot; ensure proper drainage and reduce watering frequency.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Cactaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during growi |
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