Description
Astrophytum myriostigma cv. Hakujo Fukuryu is the result of crossbreeding between two of the most famous Japanes myriostigma cultivars Astrophytum myriostigma cv. Hakujo and Astrophytum myriostigma cv. Hakuun and shows some interesting intermediate features of both the parents. These hybrids have inherited by ‘cv. Hakujo’ the felty line between contiguous areoles so it seems like the areoles are connected with each other and by ‘cv. hakuun’ the white flecks that condense forming characteristic cloud-like patches.
Stem: Pentagonal to almost spherical.
Spines: None.
Ribs: Usually 5.
Flowers: Like those of the well known A. myriostigma, pale-yellow, shining-silk.
Blooming season: Spring to summer.
Origin and Habitat
Garden origin (Nursery produced cultivar). Japan.
Cultivation and Propagation
Although regarded as a choice and difficult plant in cultivation it is relatively easy to grow. It is sometime seen as a grafted plant but grows very well on its own roots too. Use mineral, well permeable substratum with little organic matter (peat, humus). Water sparingly from March until October, and keep perfectly dry in winter, at temperatures from 5 to 15 degrees centigrade. (but it is Hardy to -7°C for short periods). In the rest period no high atmospheric humidity!! Sun Exposure: Light shade to full sun.
Propagation: Almost exclusively by seed. Plants are sometimes grafted onto column-shaped cacti.