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    Home»Succulents and Cacti»Astrophytum Myriostigma Var. Nudum (Bishop’s Miter): Growing And Care Guide

    Astrophytum Myriostigma Var. Nudum (Bishop’s Miter): Growing And Care Guide

    By Milo MasonOctober 28, 2022
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    A unique succulent, the Bishop’s Miter serves well as a desktop plant to add interest to the home or office. Its miniature size makes it suitable for indoor use, and can survive outside just as well.

    If you are interested in growing Astrophytum myriostigma var. nudum, you may have questions about how to care for this plant.

    Astrophytum Myriostigma Var. Nudum In A Pot
    Astrophytum myriostigma var. nudum in a pot (“File:Astrophytum myriostigma nudum? (3777932083).jpg” by Leonora Enking from West Sussex, England is licensed under CC BY-SA 2.0.)

    This article is meant to help by providing information on how to grow and take care of this cactus.

    in this article:

    • care
    • pruning
    • repotting
    • propagation
    • blooms
    • pests
    • common-problems

    About Astrophytum myriostigma var. nudum 

    Bishop’s Miter is a variety of the species Astrophytum myriostigma. It results from extensive selective breeding and is thought to be of Japanese origin (Garden grown).

    The name Bishop’s Cap comes from its resemblance to the traditional headwear worn by bishops in the Catholic Church. In fact, it is also called the Bishop’s Cap cactus because of this resemblance.

    Unlike others in the Myriostigma family, var. nudum is almost entirely green with no white flecks on the cactus’s body. However, it still retains the overall shape of Astrophytum myriostigma: five to six prominent ribs that look like a bishop’s Miter when looked at from above.

    The color of the body can deviate, shifting between mid-green, dark green, and grey-green between different specimens. However, the absence of white dots is what makes this species recognizable.

    Related Article: An in-depth guide on different types of Cacti

    Botanical NameAstrophytum myriostigma var. nudum
    Common NameBishop’s Miter
    FamilyCactaceae
    Plant TypeSucculent
    OriginGarden Origin
    MaintenanceLow
    Height1-4 feet
    Width1-4 feet
    LightFull sun
    Bloom seasonSpring, Summer
    Bloom colorPale Yellow
    Water needsLow
    SoilWell-Drained, Loamy, Sandy
    TolerantDeer, Drought, Rabbit, Rocky Soil
    Toxicitynon-toxic
    Hardiness (USDA)10-11

    Astrophytum myriostigma var. nudum Care

    Astrophytum myriostigma var. nudum is a very easy-to-care-for cactus. It can be grown in various conditions and doesn’t require much help once established.

    Light

    A sunny spot is ideal, but the Bishop’s Miter can also tolerate partial shade. However, keep in mind that it will grow slower and less vigorously if exposed to too much direct sunlight.

    Soil

    Astrophytum myriostigma var. nudum grows well in a cactus mix or regular potting soil. However, it’s essential to ensure that the soil is well-draining and doesn’t retain moisture.

    Slightly alkaline soils are preferred, but completely neutral soils can work, too, as long as they are fast-draining.

    Water

    Bishop’s Miter requires little to no water once it is established. In fact, overwatering can cause root rot and other issues that kill the plant.

    Water once in a while during the summer months if your area experiences long periods of drought or if you notice signs of wilting; otherwise, don’t worry about it.

    Temperature and Humidity

    Astrophytum myriostigma var. nudum is a cactus species that prefer dry conditions and cool nights. The ideal temperature range for the plant is 60 to 70 Fahrenheit, with night temperatures of 50 to 55 Fahrenheit.

    If your home is cooler than this, you can move your cactus into a room that stays warmer at night.

    Fertilizer

    Bishop’s Miter is not a heavy feeder but will benefit from fertilization. You can use a balanced fertilizer at half strength once per month or apply compost tea or fish emulsion every two weeks during the growing season.

    Astrophytum Myriostigma Var. Nudum Cheat Sheet
    Astrophytum myriostigma var. nudum cheat sheet (“Astrophytum myriostigma subv. nudum” by Любо Гаджев is licensed under CC BY-SA 2.0.)

    Pruning

    Astrophytum myriostigma var. nudum is already a compact plant and doesn’t need additional pruning. Therefore, any attempt to do so will only result in negative consequences.

    However, you can remove any spent flowers after the season passes.

    Potting and Repotting Bishop’s Miter

    Spring or summer is the best time to repot your bishop’s miter cactus. Bishop’s miters are slow-growing plants and don’t need to be repotted very often. It’s best to wait until the cactus has outgrown its container before repotting it.

    Only repot when needed, as this plant likes to be slightly potbound.

    Prepare

    • Prepare the pot. Choose a clay or plastic pot with drainage holes. You can also use an unglazed terra-cotta pot, but make sure to drill holes in the bottom.
    • Prepare the soil. A well-draining soil is essential for bishop’s miters. You can use a cactus mix or create your own potting medium by mixing half potting soil and half coarse sand.
    • Choose the spot. Bishop’s miters grow best in light shade. They will tolerate full sun, but don’t place them under harsh direct sunlight.
    • Gather the tools. You will need a small trowel, a water container, and a pair of gardening gloves.

    How to Repot (Step-by-Step)

    1. Gently remove the plant from its pot. Remove any dead roots if they are present.
    2. Be careful not to damage the roots as they are delicate and break easily.
    3. Place the bishop’s Miter in its new container. Add a layer of soil, covering the roots but not burying them.
    4. Pat down the potting medium around the rootball, so the plant is secure in its new home.
    5. Water lightly and resume your regular care routine.

    Propagating Astrophytum myriostigma var. nudum by Seeds (Step-by-Step)

    Astrophytum myriostigma var. nudum can be propagated by seed. You can find seeds online or at a local nursery that carries cacti and succulents.

    The seeds should be planted in an appropriate medium (such as cactus soil) when they are ready to germinate, which is after 3-6 weeks.

    1. Place the seeds on top of a moistened paper towel.
    2. Cover with plastic wrap and seal in a zip-lock bag or another plastic covering.
    3. Place in indirect sunlight at room temperature (70 degrees F).
    4. After a few weeks, you should see some green sprouts emerging from the soil.
    5. Transplant the seedlings into a larger pot with well-draining soil and similar conditions.

    Related: 15 Spiky Succulents That Add Edge To Your Home Décor

    Blooms

    Blooms may not appear for a few years (around 6), but once they do, you will get a beautiful display of flowers.

    The blooms are typically pale yellow and daisy-like and can last for several months before fading away.

    They emerge from the apex of the plant’s stem and are quite large in comparison to the size of the entire cactus.

    Astrophytum Myriostigma Var. Nudum Flowers
    Astrophytum myriostigma var. nudum flowers (“Astrophytum myriostigma subv. nudum” by Любо Гаджев is licensed under CC BY-SA 2.0.)

    Toxicity

    Astrophytum myriostigma var. nudum is non-toxic. It doesn’t even have spines or any sharp protrusions that can injure anyone. Therefore, it is considered safe to be kept around pets and children.

    NOTE: This page is not intended as a substitute for veterinary advice. The toxicity of an ingested substance varies depending on the amount ingested, the animal’s weight, and its sensitivity to specific allergens. Contact your veterinarian or local animal poison control center immediately if you think your pet may have ingested a toxic substance.

    Common Pests

    Mealybugs

    Mealybugs are a common pest that infests this cactus. They are small, white, and have a powdery appearance. They usually feed on the stem of your plant by sucking out its juices, which causes damage to the plant’s tissue and can lead to death if left untreated. If you notice these bugs on your cactus, remove them immediately by rubbing the affected area with neem oil.

    Scale Insects

    Although rare, scale insects can also become a problem for these cacti. Small and hard-shelled, these pests usually stick themselves onto any available surface and begin sucking the sap out. They can be treated with an application of insecticidal soap.

    Spider Mites

    Spider mites are another common problem for cacti. These pests are tiny and hard to spot, but they leave behind small webs when they feed on your plant. If you notice a bunch of webs on the surface of your cactus, it’s likely infested with spider mites. Hose them down with water to get rid of them.

    AVOID

    • Overwatering
    • Placing under harsh sunlight
    • Using poorly drained potting mediums
    • Fertilizing during dormancy

    Common Problems

    • Overwatering: Cacti don’t need to be watered very often. In fact, overwatering is one of the most common problems that new cactus owners face. When you do water this cactus, make sure to use room temperature water and let it drain out of the pot before putting it back in place. Don’t leave standing water on your plant, as this can cause root rot.
    • Washed-out Colors: Too much sunlight can cause your cactus to lose its color. If you notice that this cactus is turning a pale green or white, move it into a shadier spot for a few days. This will help restore its original color.
    • Overfertilization: Overfertilizing your cactus can cause excessive growth and make the plant’s body mushy. If you notice that this cactus is turning brown around the edges, it may be a sign of overfertilization. Reduce the fertilizer you give your plant until it turns green again.

    FAQ

    Astrophytum myriostigma var. nudum seedlings need plenty of light and humidity to thrive. So you can keep them in a sunny window for the first few weeks before they’re ready to be transplanted into a larger pot.

    Astrophytum myriostigma var. nudum prefers a dry, arid environment and should be watered sparingly. However, they also need plenty of light for proper growth.

    Water your Astrophytum myriostigma var. nudum sparingly, as they prefer dry conditions. If the soil is dry, water it lightly; if it’s moist and muddy, allow it to dry before watering again.

    1. Toxic and Non-Toxic Plants. ASPCA
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    Milo Mason

    Milo Mason is a self-proclaimed plant whisperer. With a passion for gardening, houseplants, and all things outdoors, Milo has been cultivating indoor plants for the past five years with an interest in perennials and succulents. He enjoys sharing his insights and research on plant species when it comes to care tips.

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