Astrophytum asterias.

It is one of the cacti with the greatest number of persistent enthusiasts.

Astrophytum asterias is particularly popular because of the large number of varieties and the ease of both hybridisation and seed production.

The lack of thorns is considered one of the reasons for its popularity.

As a garden product, brocade and V-arrow type individuals also have high ornamental value.

It is one of the species that enthusiasts are still working hard to improve.

We look forward to seeing what helmets are created in the future.

Habitat

It is native to Mexico.

Grows in semi-desert climatic regions on hilly saline, calcareous or loamy soils, dry riverbed sides and grasslands.

Features

Astrophytum asterias is a beautiful flat cactus.

Grey-green, dotted with tufts of white hairs.

The stem has a narrow, distinct vertical groove, which is (usually) divided into eight broad ridges.

These form the triangular part of the stem.

The circular spinous loci are arranged in a row to the centre of each ridge and are usually covered with hairs.

Artificially grown plants may flower at any time during the warm season.

Flowers are yellow with orange-red tints.

source：https://uk.inaturalist.org

Farming

Astrophytum asterias is a relatively easy species to grow.

It requires a well-drained, mineral-rich soil with low organic matter.

Repot every two years in a well-drained pot.

Use fertilisers with low nitrogen content during spring and summer to speed up growth.

Potassium helps plant health.

Water sparingly from March to October and again when the soil has dried out.

To prevent root rot, keep the plant dry from early autumn to late winter.

-5°C, but should be placed in a warmer area during cold weather.

Multiply

Reproduction is easily achieved by seed.

Anyway, strong direct sunlight and dry conditions must be avoided.

Other

Astrophytum asterias is sometimes confused with peyote (Lophophora williamsii), but there is no scientific evidence of hallucinogenic effects of this plant at present.

source：https://uk.inaturalist.org