Countless plants have withered under my care.
But I don't look back. If I did, I wouldn't be able to stay sane...

I'm Suzuki, and this is my 14th year in hobby gardening.
This section introduces only the plants I've actually grown.

This time, I'd like to introduce "Cactus 'Bull'," a cactus with horns like Hela, Thor's sister.

What kind of plant is "Cactus Astrophytum Myriostigma Nudum"?

It's a cactus belonging to the genus "Astrophytum."
Its native habitat is Mexico.

As its name suggests, its charm lies in its robust, bull horn-like spines.
The shape and color of the spines vary from individual to individual.
There are those with blackish spines, short-spined types, and those with extremely thick horns.
You'll want to collect many of them.

Even in nature, there is significant individual variation, and it seems to be a cactus that changes easily.
I wonder if varieties like these also grow with different appearances even when grown from seed.

Its true form is not round

Most of the "bull" cacti sold are round.
While they are round when young, they become columnar as they grow.
It's important to be aware of this so you don't get disappointed if you were hoping for a "round cactus!"

In my environment, the growth rate is slow, and it seems it will take several years for it to become columnar.
My goal is to grow it into a truly robust specimen!

If you prefer fair skin

There's a similar cactus called "Astrophytum Myriostigma 'Nudum'," which is also an Astrophytum.
Its spines are not as fierce as the "bull."
Its white skin and countless spines are somehow enchanting.
Since there's also individual variation in the spine shape of the "Nudum," if you find one you love, buy it immediately!

Plant Enthusiast Meter

Finally, I'll give "Cactus Astrophytum Myriostigma Nudum" a score based on my extremely personal opinion.

・Ease of care: 18 points
A normal cactus.

・Ease of shaping: 19 points
Requires proper light and airflow.

・Growth rate: 8 points
Slow, possibly due to soil quality and watering frequency.

・Suitability for Osaka: 19 points
As long as it's kept indoors, it's fine!

・Likability: 20 points
I love strong, spiky plants!

 Total Score: 84 points

That's all, editor-in-chief.

Author: Suzuki