Goat's Horn Cactus
astrophytum capricorne
Also known as: ["Cactus with goat's horns","Horned star cactus"]
Overview
A striking cactus species native to Mexico, characterized by its star-shaped body and long, curved spines resembling goat's horns.
Benefits & Perks
["low maintenance","aesthetic foliage","rare/collector’s item"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Caryophyllales |
| Family: | Cactaceae |
| Genus: | Astrophytum |
| Botanical Name: | Astrophytum capricorne |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Succulents & Cacti
- Suitable Location: indoor pot with bright light or outdoor in a well-drained rock garden
- 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 dead/damaged tissue is observed.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate, depending on damage or desired shape.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light or several hours of direct morning sun (4–6 hours). Tolerates full sun but may need acclimation to avoid scorching.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to intense sunlight; provide shade during peak afternoon sun in hot climates; indoors, place near a south-facing window with filtered light.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant weekly for even growth; avoid sudden exposure to intense sun; provide dappled shade in summer.
Watering
every 7–10 days during growing season, reduce to monthly in winter
Water deeply but infrequently; ensure soil dries fully between waterings; avoid waterlogging, especially in winter.
Soil
fast-draining cactus mix with added grit
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Ensure pots have drainage holes; avoid heavy garden soils; top-dress with gravel for extra drainage.
Temperature
Prefers warm temperatures (65–85°F or 18–29°C). Tolerates mild frosts but thrives in moderate warmth. Dormant in winter below 50°F (10°C).
Protect from frost; avoid sudden temperature swings; ensure good ventilation in warm conditions.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during active growth with diluted cactus fertilizer
Fertilize only when actively growing; use a balanced cactus formula; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or offsets.Offsets are preferred for reliability.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Select a healthy offset or cutting.
- Let it callus for 1–2 days.
- Plant in dry medium.
- Water lightly after roots form.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm (70–80°F or 21–27°C), humid (50–60%), and bright indirect light with protection from direct sun.
Medium
Well-draining mix of cactus soil and perlite (1:1 ratio).
Hormone
Optional, but rooting hormone can speed up the process.
Timeline
Roots may form in 4–6 weeks; establishment takes 3–6 months.
Tools Needed
Clean knife or scissors, rooting hormone (optional), small pot, well-draining soil mix.
Quick Tips
Allow cuttings to callus before planting; use sterile tools; maintain consistent warmth and humidity.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Trim dead spines or offsets with clean cuts; avoid excessive removal to preserve form.
Pruning Plan
Minimal pruning needed. Focus on removing dead or damaged parts to maintain health and aesthetics.
Tools
Clean, sharp scissors or pruners.
Checklist
Use clean tools; remove only dead/damaged parts; avoid over-pruning; allow cuts to dry before handling.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before the active growing season begins.
Pot Size
One size larger pot (e.g., +2 inches in diameter).
Method
Gently remove plant; trim any dead roots; place in a slightly larger pot with fresh cactus mix; ensure good drainage.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot. Necessary to refresh soil and provide space.
Checklist
Use well-draining soil; ensure pot has drainage holes; avoid over-potting; wait a week to water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil dryness; water deeply; ensure drainage; adjust frequency by season; avoid wetting the plant body.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the soil base, avoiding the plant body. Ensure water penetrates the root zone deeply but drains freely. Water in the morning to allow foliage to dry.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water sparingly during spring and fall, allowing soil to dry completely between waterings. Reduce or cease watering in winter (dormant period). Increase frequency in summer, but avoid waterlogging.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite, coarse sand, or pumice to standard cactus mix to enhance drainage and aeration.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Chlorosis or purpling in cold stress; sunburn or bleaching in excessive heat; stunted growth in temperature extremes.
Cold Stress
Low temperatures slow metabolism and increase susceptibility to rot, especially if soil remains moist.
Solution: Ensure soil is dry before cold periods; move indoors or to a frost-free location; provide a dry, well-ventilated environment.
Hot Stress
Excessive heat can cause sunburn, dehydration, and stress, especially if combined with poor watering practices.
Solution: Provide afternoon shade; increase humidity slightly; water carefully during heatwaves; ensure good air circulation.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use diluted fertilizer; apply during growing season; avoid winter feeding; flush soil periodically.
Fertilizing Method
Use a low-nitrogen cactus fertilizer diluted to half strength. Apply monthly during growing season (spring/summer); avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Slightly ToxicCats that ingest Astrophytum capricorne may experience mild gastrointestinal irritation. The plant is not highly toxic but can cause discomfort.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Slightly ToxicIngestion of Astrophytum capricorne by dogs may lead to mild gastrointestinal upset. The toxins are not highly potent but can cause discomfort.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Slightly ToxicAstrophytum capricorne contains mild toxins that can cause gastrointestinal distress when ingested. The physiological impact is generally limited to mild irritation of the digestive tract.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How often should I water Astrophytum capricorne?
A: Water sparingly, only when the soil is completely dry, typically every 2-3 weeks during growing season.
Q: Does this cactus need full sun?
A: Yes, it thrives in bright, direct sunlight for at least 6 hours daily.
Q: Can Astrophytum capricorne be grown indoors?
A: Yes, it can be grown indoors provided it receives adequate sunlight and proper drainage.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Cactaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during growi |
Get Expert Care Tips
Download the Plantious app for personalized care reminders and plant identification!
Google Play App Store
