15 Sand Dollar Cactus Seeds

Astrophytum Asterias Nudun Sand Dollar Cacti Rare Flower Cactus Seed

Astrophytum Asterias is a spineless, grayish green to brownish green, smooth cactus with white, furry areoles, characteristics that combine to give it the appearance of a sea urchin or sand dollar. It is perhaps the most sought-after species of astrophytum. The root of the name astrophytum refers to the stars, as in the word “astronomy,” which reflects the somewhat star-shaped appearance of this cactus.

Astrophytum Asterias grows primarily along the Rio Grande border in southern Texas and northern Mexico. Like peyote and Ariocarpus fissuratus, astrophytum asterias is also endangered in the wild due to over-harvesting by cactus collectors and habitat destruction. However, it has become preserved in cultivation by collectors. It is also a fine candidate for grafting onto faster-growing rootstocks such as pereskiopsis, San Pedro, and blue myrtle.

It is sensitive to over-watering so should only be watered very lightly during active growth and never during dormancy. Alkaline, porous soil will provide necessary drainage, and watering from below potted cacti so the water wicks up through the soil is recommended. Grafting will also help by lifting the cactus out of the soil where it may come into contact with standing water.

Once established, it will require full sun for blooming. Its flowers are typically yellow with red centers, measuring 2”. It has irregular blooming throughout the summer season. Once the buds have formed, half-strength fertilizer can be applied to encourage growth.

Growing Information

Seeds should be germinated in fine sandy soil at about 70-75 degrees. A commercial potting mix with the larger material strained out is ideal. Flatten out the soil and then put a thin layer of loose soil above it. Sow the seeds on the surface and press in very lightly.

They need light to germinate. Mist the soil to keep it moist and cover it with clear plastic. Ideally, the covering should not be flat across the top because it will cause the water to drip back on the young seedlings, which sometimes causes rot. Something like a sandwich bag often makes a better “tent” because the water will run down the sides more easily.

The soil should not be allowed to dry out while the plants are seedlings. Use a mister if the soil does get dry. Place the seedlings on a heat mat (ideally) and in bright light. Placing the seeds just a few inches from fluorescent lights is ideal for starting seedlings, although natural light will work too.

Note that using a heat mat will cause more evaporation, which may require more attention. Be sure to air out the seedlings once a day for the best results.

Quantity: 15 Sand Dollar Cactus Seeds