Astrophytum ornatum var. mirbelii
This is an uncommon pretty form with lots of white flecks and golden spines it is considered by many the most beautiful variety of the species

Desription: Astrophytum ornatum v. mirbelii Already described in 1838 by CH . LEMAIRE it is recognizable for its canary yellow spines and the characteristic thick white flocks. The stem is stout and very white and take a long time in the transition to the adult form.
Nowadays many botanists don’t recognize the variety rank to this taxon which does not differ conspicuously from the other forms of the species.

Cultivation: This cactus is pretty cold hardy and can survive to -10° C (if kept dry). It needs to be at least 15 cm tall to bloom . This might take no less than seven years or more depending on the length of the growing period in the local climatic conditions.

Photo of conspecific taxa, varieties, forms and cultivars of Astrophytum asterias.

• Astrophytum ornatum
• Astrophytum ornatum var mirbelii
• Astrophytum ornatum var. virens
• Astrophytum ornatum forma cristata

Scientific name: Astrophytum ornatum v. mirbelii (LEMAIRE) OKUMURA
 

Origin: Rio Moctezuma valley in the southern Hidalgo and middle Queretaro The river forms the limit of these two states of the Mexican highland

Habitat:  Grows like all its relatives on steep limestone slopes of the canyons and shores of the Barrancas.

Conservation status: Listed in CITES appendix 2.

Synonyms:  

• Astrophytum ornatum var. mirbelii (Boed.) Buxb. 1933 : ?

The spines are bright golden-yellow.