Xerophyte

Description

Astrophytum ornatum cv. KikkoSN|3660]]SN|29594]] is a rare cultivar distinguished for its stem entirely split in tubercles, in fact its areoles stick out on long conical notches and could be a mutation much like the Astrophytum myriostigma cv. Lotusland, but much larger and robust with longer tubercles. The epidermis is covered by more or less dense (depending on clone) white flecks that cover the tubercles. In general the bigger the “teeth” are and the longer and fatter they are, the better. The stem is solitary and often fails to produce offsets even if it has had its top cut off to encourage the formation of a crown of branches. All species of Astrophytum (excluded Astrophytum caput-medusaeSN|3593]]SN|3593]]) have their particular "kikko" variants.

Note

This plant is often confused with the controversial hybrid Astrobergia cv. Astrophytum sp. x Leuctenbergia principis which is very similar (if not the same?).

Flowers

The flower reminds those of the Astrophytum ornatumSN|29594]]SN|3660]], pale-yellow, shining-silk.

Blooming Season

Spring to summer.