How to properly pull the sea urchin cactus

This is what the Astrophytum asterias looks like

• Ball-shaped, somewhat flattened body
• gray-green color
• up to five centimeters in height
• up to ten centimeters in diameter
• large yellow flowers with red inside
• no thorns

The sea urchin cactus, like all astrophytes, comes from the desert. It therefore needs a lot of light and warmth, but also cooler phases in between.

The right location for Astrophytum asterias

This species of cactus likes it bright and prefers direct sunlight. You should only install grow lights in an emergency. A seat in the flower window facing south is ideal. The Astrophytum must not stand more than a meter away from the window.

In summer you are welcome to look after the sea urchin cactus on the balcony or terrace. You just have to get him into the house in good time before the temperatures get too cool, especially at night.

Culture in the room

With the culture of Astrophytum asterias in the room you have to meet certain requirements for the sea urchin cactus to thrive.

Water regularly with lime-free water during the main growing season, rainwater is best. Make sure that the substrate does not get too moist so that root rot does not develop. Always allow the soil to dry off between the individual watering processes.

Be economical with the fertilizer. It is completely sufficient if you provide the sea urchin cactus with a little liquid fertilizer once a month. There is no fertilization in winter.

Culture of Astrophytum asterias in winter

From late autumn to the end of winter, the Astrophytum asterias takes a break. During this time, place it in a bright location with temperatures of seven to ten degrees. The cactus cannot tolerate frost!

In winter, keep the cactus almost completely dry.