Astrophytum capricorne “crassispinoides”
Synonyms:
Astrophytum capricorne cv. Crassispinoides
Cultivation:
This Astrophytum is a slow, summer-growing cactus. It needs a sandy- gritty very well-draining soil; to grow healhty, it needs very good sun and airy exposure ; it is heat tolerant, while it needs to be kept perfectly dry to avoid frosting damage. During growing season, water it regularly once a week, and feed them once with a high potash – low nitrogen fertilizer.
Propagation:
Propagation can easily be done by seeds. During spring, put them in containers with fine, well-draining sandy soil. Seeds can be sown in pots of fine, well-drained sandy soil: cover them with a fine layer of grit and water with fungicide. For the first two weeks keep the humidity level high covering the pots with a sheet of glass; replace it with light shade-cloth, and for the next two weeks mist once or twice a day. Then, mistings can be done every two and every three days. In the end, rooted seedlings can be planted separaterly in small containers.
Curiosity:
Be careful not to confuse Astrophytum capricorne “crassispinoides” with Astrophytum capricorne “crassispinum”. Tthese plants are very different: A. “crassispinum” presents very stiff and strong spines and flowers with a noticeable red throat.