Astrophytum myriostigma prefers a warm, dry, and sunny environment.
The cultivation soil for Astrophytum myriostigma should be loose, well-draining, and rich in limestone sandy soil. The optimal growth temperature is 18-25°C. It is relatively cold-resistant, but the winter temperature should not drop below 5°C. Otherwise, wrinkles and yellow-brown spots may appear on the skin, and in severe cases, it may freeze to death.
Astrophytum myriostigma is also relatively tolerant of partial shade and drought but dislikes excessive moisture, so watering should be controlled as much as possible. It is relatively tolerant of strong light, but shading is necessary in summer.
During the growth period of Astrophytum myriostigma (spring and summer), watering can be done every two weeks (depending on actual conditions, remember to keep the soil slightly moist rather than wet). In autumn and winter, the soil should be kept dry.
Propagation of Astrophytum myriostigma is mainly through sowing. It can be sown in early spring, with the optimal germination temperature being around 21°C. Astrophytum myriostigma has a relatively high germination rate.
Astrophytum myriostigma is a slow-growing but easy-to-flower plant (it may take up to six years to flower). In the wild, they often bloom in early spring, allowing their seeds to grow during the summer rainy season. When cultivated at home, they will bloom in spring and summer, with funnel-shaped flowers at the top of the stem, glossy yellow, and sweet-smelling.
Astrophytum myriostigma is robust and thrives in warm, dry, and sunny environments. It tolerates strong light and partial shade, drought, and has some cold resistance (tolerating temperatures as low as -5°C) but dislikes long-term soil moisture, which may lead to rot.
Overall, Astrophytum myriostigma is easy to care for and suitable for beginners. For soil mix, choose a well-draining medium such as peat or granular soil mixed with a higher proportion of granules. Consider adding some limestone (native to the original location) to make it harder. Since Astrophytum myriostigma grows slowly and has low fertilizer requirements, add a small amount of basal fertilizer as needed, such as earthworm manure or slow-release fertilizer.
Water regularly, watering thoroughly when the soil is close to dry. In summer, pay attention to shading appropriately (using shading nets), as excessive sunlight may cause sunburn. Water moderately, neither letting the soil dry out completely nor keeping it excessively moist. In winter, stop watering when the temperature is low (around 5°C). Outside of summer, provide ample sunlight for Astrophytum myriostigma. Insufficient light may cause the plant's spherical body to turn green and reduce the number of white spots on its surface, affecting its ornamental value.