Care of the cacti Ariocarpus furfuraceus or Seven Stars |
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The genus Ariocarpus, family Cactaceae, comprises 6 species of cactus native to Mexico and Texas. Some species are: Ariocarpus furfuraceus, Ariocarpus retusus, Ariocarpus agavoides. Common names: Seven Stars, Living Rock. This species is native northern Mexico. They are curious very slow growing cacti with large tubers (mamelons) that reach 25 cm (9.84") in diameter. The root is napiform and the deltoid tubers are arranged in a spiral presenting woolly areolas without spines. The flowers are pink or white in color and are up to 5 cm (1.95") in diameter. They are used in pots deeper than wide for greenhouses, balconies, patios or as houseplants in well-lit locations. Ariocarpus furfuraceus needs full sun or well lit exposure and a dry and warm climate. The winter safety temperature is 5 ºC (41 ºF). The soil can be a mixture of vermiculite, coarse siliceous sand and heather earth. The substrate surface should be covered with pebbles. Its resistance to drought is very high; water every 15 days in summer, every 25-30 in spring, every 40 in autumn and do not water in winter. They do not need pruning or fertilization. They are very sensitive plants to excess humidity. They propagate from seeds sown in spring but it is a very slow process. |
Images of the cacti Ariocarpus furfuraceus or Seven Stars |
 Ariocarpus furfuraceus  Ariocarpus furfuraceus  Ariocarpus  Ariocarpus |