Astrophytum asterias
From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
| Astrophytum asterias | |
|---|---|
 |
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| Conservation status | |
| Scientific classification | |
| Kingdom: | Plantae |
| (unranked): | Angiosperms |
| (unranked): | Eudicots |
| (unranked): | Core eudicots |
| Order: | Caryophyllales |
| Family: | Cactaceae |
| Genus: | Astrophytum |
| Species: | A. asterias |
| Binomial name | |
| Astrophytum asterias Lem. |
|
Astrophytum asterias is an attractive, spineless cactus also known as a Sand Dollar Cactus, Sea Urchin Cactus, and Star Peyote. They are typically small, often 2-6 inches in diameter and usually 1-2 inches tall. In the wild, they flower throughout most of the summer season.
As with certain other slowly maturing cacti, A. asterias has been listed as endangered[1], and its decline in the wild has been largely attributed to over-collection and poaching. Other contributing factors are thought to be urban development and herbicides.
Fortunately, the cactus is readily propagated by seed, and its rarity in the wild ensures that most such plants encountered in nurseries are seed grown. The popularity of this species among collectors and enthusiasts has ensured that a number of cultivars are available. One such cultivar is the 'Super Kabuto', a highly spotted white clone.
[edit] References
[edit] External links
- (French) Astrophytum asterias on Astroweb
- This article incorporates information from the German Wikipedia. Astrophytum asterias on Astrobase
- (English) "Star Cactus (Astrophytum asterias)". 25/2/2007.
- (English) photos on www.cactiguide.com
- (French) photos on www.AIAPS.org
