Astrophytum asterias 'Super Kabuto' is a particularly striking cultivar of the Astrophytum asterias, a species of cactus native to parts of Texas in the United States and northeastern Mexico. This cultivar is known for its unique and ornamental appearance, which distinguishes it from the standard Astrophytum asterias. Here's a detailed description and some cultivation tips:
Description
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Appearance: The 'Super Kabuto' is characterized by its star-shaped body with multiple ribs (usually eight), giving it a somewhat flattened globe appearance. It's usually a deep green in color.
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Surface: One of the most distinctive features of this cultivar is its surface. It is densely covered with white flecks, which are much more prominent and numerous than in the standard variety. These white dots can vary in pattern, often creating a stunning, almost snowflake-like appearance.
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Flowers: Like the standard species, it blooms with yellow flowers. The flowers are large compared to the size of the plant and usually appear at the top.
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Size: This plant remains relatively small, making it an ideal choice for container gardening.
Cultivation Tips
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Light: Requires plenty of sunlight but should be protected from intense midday sun, especially during the hottest part of the year. A location with morning sun and afternoon shade is often ideal.
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Watering: Water moderately during the growing season but allow the soil to dry out between waterings. In winter, reduce watering significantly as the plant goes dormant.
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Soil: Prefers a well-draining soil mix. A standard cactus mix or a mixture of potting soil, sand, and perlite or pumice works well.
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Temperature: It is somewhat cold-resistant but should be protected from frost. Ideal temperatures are between 70-80°F (21-27°C) during the growing season.
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Feeding: Fertilize sparingly during the growing season using a cactus-specific fertilizer.
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Repotting: Repot every few years to ensure fresh soil and to inspect the root system. Be careful as the roots are delicate.
Propagation
- Typically propagated from seeds, which can be a slow process. Grafting is also a common method for propagation, especially to speed up growth.
