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Plant ID
Plant ID No.: GD-CAC-004-0025
Scientific Name: Astrophytum myriostigma Lem.
Family: Cactaceae
Genus: Astrophytum
Identification: Astrophytum myriostigma
The photographed plant is consistent with Astrophytum myriostigma, an accepted species native to northeastern Mexico. Plants of the World Online
Common Name(s)
- Bishop’s Cap Cactus
- Bishop’s Mitre
- Bishop’s Hat
- Monk’s Hood
Plant Photograph
Figure 1. Astrophytum myriostigma in flower.
Photo Caption:
A cultivated Astrophytum myriostigma displaying its distinctive ribbed, spineless body and two large yellow flowers with deep reddish-orange centres.
Photography: John Niño G. Ewa (@_____.5am)
Plant Description
Astrophytum myriostigma is a solitary, generally unbranched cactus whose most recognizable feature is its geometric ribbed body. The species commonly develops five broad ribs, although the number can increase as the plant matures. Default
Unlike several other members of Astrophytum, this species is naturally spineless. Its surface is instead marked by small white, woolly scales that give the body its characteristic grey-green or mottled appearance. RHS
The specimen photographed here is particularly notable for its two simultaneously open yellow flowers with strongly contrasting reddish centres.
Basic Information
| Feature | Information |
|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Astrophytum myriostigma Lem. |
| Family | Cactaceae |
| Genus | Astrophytum |
| Plant Type | Solitary cactus |
| Native Range | Northeastern Mexico |
| Body Form | Globose to shortly columnar |
| Ribs | Usually 5 when young; may increase with age |
| Spines | Absent |
| Surface | Covered with fine white scales |
| Flowers | Yellow, often with reddish centre |
| Collection Record | Flowering specimen photographed in cultivation |
Taxonomic information and distribution are consistent with Kew’s current treatment of the species. Plants of the World Online
Plant Overview
What distinguishes this particular species within the Astrophytum collection is the combination of a clean, spineless body, broad star-like ribs and abundant white surface scales. Its flowers provide another important identification feature: large pale-yellow to yellow blooms that may show a conspicuous reddish centre. RHS
The photographed plant is therefore best documented simply as Astrophytum myriostigma. No cultivar or named horticultural form is assigned from this photograph.
Botanical Description
Note: General characteristics shared by the genus Astrophytum—including general cactus structure, cultivation requirements, propagation, pests and diseases—are covered on the Astrophytum Genus Page and are not repeated here.
Growth Habit
The species is typically solitary and unbranched, developing from a rounded body into a more elongated or shortly columnar form with age. Missouri Botanical Garden
Mature Size
Plants may eventually reach approximately 60 cm in height in cultivation, although specimens vary considerably according to growing conditions. Default
Stem
The stem is the principal identifying feature of this species: broad, sharply defined ribs create a distinctive star-like cross-section, while the epidermis is grey-green and densely marked with small whitish scales. Default
Leaves
None. As a cactus, the photosynthetic stem performs the principal function normally associated with foliage.
Spines
Absent. The spineless condition is one of the clearest distinguishing characteristics of A. myriostigma. RHS
Roots
The plant possesses a root system adapted to its naturally dry environment. No unusual root feature can be established from the photograph.
Flowers
Flowers are produced near the apex and are relatively large compared with the body of the plant. They are yellow to pale yellow, with a reddish-orange central area sometimes present. The flowers in the Green Desert photograph show this contrasting central coloration particularly clearly. RHS
Fruits
Fruits develop after successful pollination; fruiting cannot be documented from the present photograph.
Seeds
Seeds are produced following successful pollination and are used for propagation of the species. No seed characteristics are documented from this specimen.
Native Habitat
Geographic Distribution
Astrophytum myriostigma is native to northeastern Mexico. Plants of the World Online
Natural Ecosystem
The species occurs in desert and dry shrubland environments, including dry upland habitats. Plants of the World Online
Species-Specific Habitat Note
Its natural distribution in northeastern Mexico distinguishes it geographically from several other Astrophytum species whose ranges are centered in different parts of Mexico. Plants of the World Online
Cultivation Note
The general cultivation requirements for Astrophytum are shared at the genus level and therefore belong on the Astrophytum Genus Page.
For this species specifically, the Green Desert specimen demonstrates that A. myriostigma can be maintained successfully as a compact container plant and can produce large, showy flowers even while remaining relatively small. The RHS lists it as a full-sun cactus suitable for well-drained growing conditions. RHS
Green Desert Observation
Observation: This specimen was photographed in full bloom with two flowers open at the same time, creating a striking contrast between the yellow petals, dark reddish centres and grey-green, white-flecked body.
Life’s Whisper
“Beauty sometimes appears quietly, one flower at a time.”
References
For the complete botanical references, scientific literature, and online resources used by the Green Desert Botanical Library, please visit the References page available from the Main Menu.
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