Astrophytum : a desert cactus

Astrophytum is a cactus from the deserts of Mexico. Its name means "plant star." Gardeners like this plant, and many types are now available.

The Astrophytum cactus is small, round, and shaped like a cylinder. It looks like a starfish. Light-colored spots cover its stem. These spots are fuzzy and help the plant soak up water.

Astrophytum is a small, easy-to-grow plant. It has a unique shape. The plant has ribs that run from top to bottom. Most have 3 to 10 ribs. Some types are round. The plant can be green or blue-green.

The areoles grow along the ribs. Some have hairs or thorns. These plants stay small, reaching 2-4 inches tall and 8-12 inches wide. This cactus blooms in the middle of summer. A thick stem grows from the top. Usually, there is just one stem.

Sometimes, the Astrophytum grows several stems. Each stem has one flower bud. The flowers look like funnels. They can grow up to 3 inches across. The petals are light yellow or cream-colored.

The flowers only last about 3 days. After they die, seed pods form.

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